oxymoron figure of speech meaning and examples

Definition of Oxymoron

Oxymoron is a figure of speech pairing two words together that are opposing and/or contradictory. This combination of contrary or antithetical words is also known in conversation as a contradiction in terms. As a literary device, oxymoron has the effect of creating an impression, enhancing a concept, and even entertaining the reader.

The phrase original copy  is a good illustration of an oxymoron. This is a pairing of opposing words that contradict each other. If something is original,  then it is not a copy. In turn, if something is a  copy,  then it is not original. Yet, original copy as an oxymoron commonly and figuratively means that the content of the copy is original.

Common Examples of Oxymoron

Here are some examples of oxymoron that may be found in everyday expression:

• Only choice
• Same difference
• Friendly fire
• Virtual reality
• Controlled chaos
• Freezer burn
• Silent scream
• Terribly good
• Close distance
• Stiff drink
• Black light
• Clearly confused
• Genuine fake
• Living history
• Exact estimate
• Student teacher
• Passive aggressive
• Smaller half
• Magical realism
• Loyal opponent
• Random Order
• Live recording
• Jumbo shrimp

Usage of Oxymoron in Speech or Writing

Here are some examples of oxymoron that may be found in everyday writing or conversation:

• My sister and I had a friendly fight over the lipstick.
• I think the professor stated his unbiased opinion  regarding the student response.
• You look awfully pretty in that coat.
• Sarah ate the whole piece of pie.
• The carpenters left the bench completely unfinished .
• The new kittens enjoyed being Alone together .
• True fiction is my favorite genre to read.
• It is considered a false truth that a broken mirror means bad luck.
• Joe considers himself to be a ladies’ man  when he’s at a club.
• Jenny thinks of her garage as an organized mess.

Famous Oxymorons

Think you haven’t heard of any famous oxymorons? Here are some well-known and recognizable examples of this figure of speech:

• Little Bighorn Battlefield (national monument in Montana)
• “True Lies” (American film)
• “CatDog” (American animated television series)
• “Pretty Ugly” (book by Kirker Butler)
• “Big Little Lies” (book by Liane Moriarty, adapted into television series for HBO)
• “Quotes from a Devout Atheist” (compilation book of Richard Dawkins quotes)
• “Waking Dream” (American documentary film)
• “Steel Magnolias” (American stage play by Robert Harling)
• “You can’t have more types of fake news than real news.” (Elon Musk)
• “ I am a deeply superficial person.” (Andy Warhol)
• “I’m nobody! Who are you? Are you – Nobody – too?” ( Emily Dickinson )
• “Cruel kindness drew me near and held me close” (InsideOut song lyric )
• “Ordinary riches can be stolen; real riches cannot.” ( Oscar Wilde )
• “… this was fancy terrible.” ( Dorothy Parker )
• “Vidia was complicated, two fairies in one, a loyal traitor.” (Gail Carson Levine)

Difference Between Oxymoron and Paradox

People are often confused by the difference between oxymoron and paradox . Paradox is a literary device in which a statement or group of statements features initially contrasting ideas. However, with applied thought, paradoxes make sense. Also, they often lead the reader to an underlying truth. One example of a paradox is the following conflicting idea.  The best way to make money is to spend money .

Oxymoron is also a literary device, but is considered a “condensed” paradox. This means that oxymoron is a figure of speech that includes just a couple of contradictory words that are paired together rather than a full statement of ideas. Oxymoron phrases can be figuratively true, but not literally true.

Writing Oxymoron

Overall, as a literary device, oxymoron functions as a means of getting the reader’s attention through the pairing of opposing or contradictory words. Reading these words together will often cause a reader to pause and think about what the writer is trying to convey. These figures of speech can enhance a reader’s understanding of a concept, interpretation of a phrase, or enjoyment of language.

Here are instances in which it’s effective to use oxymoron in writing:

Demonstrate Linguistic Skill

Since most people don’t use oxymoron very often when speaking, it does take linguistic skill to create one that is successful. For example, just pairing any two words that are contradictory won’t make for an effective oxymoron. The phrase  daily night certainly features contrary wording. However, if there is no figurative or underlying meaning to the phrase, it shouldn’t be used as a proper oxymoron. Instead, it takes linguistic skill in knowing which words, though opposing, will work together to have an effect on the reader.

One example of a skillful oxymoron is  real fake.  This figure of speech is clever in that utilizing the word “real” to describe something that is “fake” actually lends a sense of truth and authenticity to something that is, by nature, untrue and inauthentic. Therefore, the linguistic skill demonstrated in this oxymoron is a layered.  Real fake is a combination of contradictory terms. However, the terms are also complementary as a pair.

Enhance Drama

Oxymoron can enhance drama in writing. This is especially achieved if the word pairing reveals intensity or a great difference in quality. For example, if a character receives a  painful smile,  this creates a significant dramatic effect. Smiles are rarely associated with pain. Therefore, the reader is left in some suspense to wonder what events or feelings would result in such a response received by the character.

However, it’s important that writers don’t overuse oxymoron as a literary device. Too many uses of oxymoron can be either distracting or tedious for the reader. Their dramatic effect is much more powerful with sparing use.

Create Humor

Oxymoron can be an excellent tool in creating humor for a reader. For example, if a character is described as a man child , this oxymoron calls up a humorous image of a child that looks like a man or vice-versa. It is also comedic in terms of behavior, both in terms of a man acting like a child or a child behaving like a man.

Indicate Irony

Oxymoron can also serve as a means of elevated language when used to express a sense of irony . For example, oxymoron phrases such as marital bliss, military intelligence,  and  business ethics,  depending on how they are used as figures of speech, can be effective literary devices to indicate irony. These word pairings are not inherently opposite, but their individual concepts can seem contradictory when combined.

Examples of Oxymoron in Literature

Oxymoron is an effective literary device. Here are some examples of oxymoron phrases in well-known literary works, along with how they add to interpretation:

Example #1: Romeo and Juliet (William Shakespeare)

Good night, good night! parting is such sweet sorrow , That I shall say good night till it be morrow.

In perhaps the most well-known oxymoron in literature, Juliet describes her feelings about Romeo leaving her presence as “sweet sorrow.” Shakespeare’s use of oxymoron indicates that Juliet’s “sorrow” and sadness at the thought that Romeo must part from her is also “sweet” and pleasant. She feels sadness knowing she must say good night to Romeo. However, she lovingly anticipates seeing him again which is a pleasant feeling.

Example #2:  Don Juan  (George Gordon, Lord Byron)

It is an awful topic–but ‘t is not My cue for any time to be terrific: For checker’d as is seen our human lot With good, and bad, and worse, alike prolific Of melancholy merriment, to quote Too much of one sort would be soporific;– Without, or with, offence to friends or foes, I sketch your world exactly as it goes.

In this poem , Lord Byron uses the oxymoron “melancholy merriment” to describe the feelings and connections between sadness and joy. This oxymoron is symbolic of the human condition as reflected in the poet’s mention of “our human lot.” In addition, this oxymoron supports and complements the balance of oppositions featured in the rest of the poem’s structure, such as good and bad, without or with, and friends or foes.

Example #3:  Funeral Blues (W.H. Auden)

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone, Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone, Silence the pianos and with muffled drum Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.

In this poem, Auden utilizes the oxymoron “juicy bone.” Of course, a bone is generally considered dry and the opposite of juicy. However, a bone may seem juicy to a dog that is salivating at the thought of chewing it. Also, this oxymoron is ironic in the context of a poem in which a funeral is the subject . The “juicy bone” is a contrast in its own phrasing, as well as a contrasting image with the coffin and the implied corpse’s bones inside.

Example #4:  The Catcher in the Rye (J.D. Salinger)

I’m the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life.

Salinger uses an oxymoron in this quote by Holden Caulfield, the narrator of the novel . The phrase “terrific liar” pairs two words that have opposing connotations . “Terrific” has positive connotations, as in wonderful or extraordinarily great. However, “liar” has negative connotations, as in someone who is untruthful or deceptive. Together, these words indicate that Holden takes pride in how adept he is at lying–a behavior that is generally associated with indignity.

This statement made by Holden reveals the level of complexity and impact an oxymoron can have as a literary device when it comes to interpretation. Through the phrase “terrific liar,” Holden is admitting that he is both a deceptive person and that he’s extraordinarily great at being so. Therefore, Salinger cleverly calls into question Holden’s reliability as a narrator through just this figure of speech. If Holden’s claim is that he is wonderful at being an untruthful person, then he casts doubt as to the truth of his own statement to the reader about being a terrific liar as well.

Related posts:

• Romeo and Juliet Oxymoron
• Huge List of Oxymorons
• Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow

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• English Grammar
• Figures Of Speech

Oxymoron - Meaning, Definition and How to Use Them with Examples

In this article, you will be introduced to the figure of speech called ‘oxymoron’. You will get to know all that you need to know about oxymoron, its meaning, definitions and how it has to be used. You can also check out the examples given in the article to understand clearly and use the figure of speech correctly.

Table of Contents

What is oxymoron – meaning and definition, how to use an oxymoron in a sentence – points to remember, examples of oxymoron from literature, some other common examples of oxymoron for everyday use, check your understanding of oxymoron, frequently asked questions on oxymoron in english grammar.

An oxymoron is a rhetorical device that uses two opposite or contradictory terms one after the other in order to project an effect. According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, oxymoron is defined as “a phrase that combines two words that seem to be the opposite of each other.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines an oxymoron as “two words or phrases used together that have, or seem to have, opposite meanings.”

An oxymoron, according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is defined as “a combination of contradictory or incongruous words.” The Collins Dictionary defines an oxymoron as “a figure of speech in which opposite or contradictory ideas or terms are combined.”

An oxymoron, as already discussed, is the combination of two contradicting terms. There are some points you have to remember when forming and using oxymorons in sentences. The first point you have to keep in mind is that you have to combine two opposite words, only then can it be considered an oxymoron. Also, do not just use any two opposite terms. Not every combination would make sense. You have to carefully analyse which two words would create an effect on your audience.

Taking a look at some examples will help you understand clearly. There are some frequently used oxymorons as well. You can also go through them to have a good idea about how they can be formed and used.

Examples of Oxymoron

Take a look at the following examples of oxymoron to clearly understand what it is and how it can be used.

Here are a few examples of oxymoron as used in different forms of literature.

• “His honour rooted in dishonour stood, And faith unfaithful kept him falsely true.” Alfred, Lord Tennyson, Idylls of the King
• We can see multiple instances where William Shakespeare uses oxymorons in his famous play, Romeo and Juliet.
• “Parting is such sweet sorrow. ”
• “Why, then, O brawling love! O loving hate !
• O anything, of nothing first create!
• O heavy lightness ! Serious vanity!
• Mis-shalien chaos of well-seeming forms!
• Feather of lead, bright smoke, cold fire, sick health !”
• In the poem, Don Juan by Lord Byron, he uses oxymoron to connect the emotions between sadness and happiness.
• “With good, and bad, and worse, alike prolific

Of melancholy merriment, to quote

Too much of one sort would be soporific;”

• William Butler Yeats uses an oxymoron in his poem, Lapis Lazuli
• “One asks for mournful melodies ;

Accomplished fingers begin to play.”

• John Donne makes use of an oxymoron in his poem, The Ecstasy.
• “Our eye-beams twisted, and did thread
• Our eyes upon one double string;

So to’intergraft our hands, as yet

Was all the means to make us one,

Here are a few commonly used oxymorons that have been in the English language frequently. Examples of sentences using those oxymorons have also been given in the following table for your reference. Check them out.

Identify the oxymorons in the following sentences.

1. It is always a love-hate relationship between us.

2. I can never manage such a deafening silence.

3. The company faced a minor crisis in the last year, which affected the company to a great extent.

4. Their restlessness was projected like a silent scream for help.

5. I have zero tolerance for dishonesty.

6. My mom asked my brother to stop behaving like a big baby.

7. Trigonometry is my least favourite topic in Maths.

8. There was a definite possibility for us to be late due to the traffic.

9. We use plastic glasses so we can just dispose of them after use.

10. Mazeeka was on a heavy diet owing to her wedding.

Now, find out if you have identified the oxymorons correctly from the answers given below.

2. I can never manage such a deafening silence .

6. My mom asked my brother to stop behaving like a big baby .

What is an oxymoron?

An oxymoron is a rhetorical device that uses two opposite or contradictory terms one after the other in order to project an effect.

What is the definition of an oxymoron?

According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, oxymoron is defined as “a phrase that combines two words that seem to be the opposite of each other.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines an oxymoron as “two words or phrases used together that have, or seem to have, opposite meanings.” An oxymoron, according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is defined as “a combination of contradictory or incongruous words.” The Collins Dictionary defines an oxymoron as “a figure of speech in which opposite or contradictory ideas or terms are combined.”

How can we form an oxymoron?

The first point you have to keep in mind is that you have to combine two opposite words, only then can it be considered an oxymoron. Also, do not just use any two opposite terms. Not every combination would make sense. You have to carefully analyse which two words would create an effect on your audience.

Give some examples of oxymorons from literature.

Here are some examples of oxymorons from literature.

Give some common day-to-day examples of oxymorons.

Here are a few examples of oxymorons that can be used in everyday life.

• My brother feels that I am growing smaller every time he comes back after a trip.
• Santana left the painting completely unfinished.
• My sister and I had a friendly fight.
• Technological advancement in the educational department is completely based on virtual reality.
• Soumia seems to be clearly confused.

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50 Examples of Oxymorons

Krystal N. Craiker

Do you know what an oxymoron is? No, it's not an insult!

An oxymoron is a common rhetorical device that combines two or more words with contradictory meanings into a single phrase.

They appear in literature and pop culture, and you probably use them all the time in your day-to-day life.

Today, we are taking a deep dive into the definition of this literary device . We'll also take a look at many fun and often funny examples of oxymorons.

What Is an Oxymoron?

What are examples of oxymorons, what's the difference between oxymoron and paradox, what's the difference between oxymoron and irony, what's the difference between oxymoron and antithesis, what are some examples of oxymorons in literature, what are some examples of oxymorons in pop culture.

An oxymoron is a combination of words, typically just two words, with contradictory meanings. Even though the two words are often antonyms (words with opposite meanings), they don't negate each other.

However, if you think too hard about the meaning, you'll realize that on the surface it doesn't quite make sense.

When these words are combined, they create a figure of speech with a whole new meaning.

The word oxymoron is derived from a late-Greek word. In Greek, oxys means sharp or keen, and moros means foolish or dull. Together, oxymoros meant "pointedly foolish".

Now that we know the definition of oxymoron , let's take a look at some examples.

There are many oxymoron examples that you might come across in your everyday life. If you enjoy seafood, you might have tried jumbo shrimp .

Shrimp means small and jumbo means large, but when they are combined, this oxymoron just refers to larger-than-average shrimp.

When you order your jumbo shrimp, you might hope that there is an open bar .

This oxymoron means unlimited free drinks, but, by definition, a bar keeps something closed off—the opposite of open.

Have you ever played on an Oculus Rift? It's a virtual reality system.

Virtual reality is an oxymoron because "virtual" implies that something isn't real, but reality implies that it is. Together, these words mean a very realistic virtual world.

An elderly woman might talk about her adult children who live in a mobile home .

If you're in school to become an educator, you might have to spend a semester as a student teacher .

Or if you would prefer to get your master's degree, you'll be a graduate student .

My high school mascot was a stallion, so our female athletes were called the Lady Stallions . If you didn't know, a stallion refers to a male horse.

You might eat vegan bacon and fresh frozen fruit when you take a working vacation . Just try not to get freezer burn .

Even if you're a wise fool you can show real potential .

Maybe you've told a joke only to get deafening silence in response.

You'll also find examples in history and current events. You'll have definitely heard some in everyday conversation.

Countries engage in civil war or fight holy wars to defend those with blue blood .

On the nightly news, you might hear about an escaped prisoner or a controversy with a foreign national .

Perhaps a soldier was killed by friendly fire . Some of the stories might even be old news !

As a kid, you might have attended a slumber party where you played practical jokes on your friends.

You probably tried to act natural so no one would know what you were up to. We just hope you were never an uninvited guest !

As you can see, there are tons of oxymorons in our lexicon. Here are a few more for your list:

• Same difference
• Terrible beauty
• Only choice
• Honest thief
• Silent scream
• Minor crisis
• Small crowd

Can you think of any other examples?

Do Oxymoron and Cliché Mean the Same?

Many oxymorons are so commonly used that they have become cliché. However, oxymorons themselves are not automatically clichés.

While they can be effective if used intentionally, clichés can make your writing feel stale and unimaginative.

ProWritingAid's Cliché check can help you identify them as they are easily overlooked.

In the below example, perhaps I could have said "aristocrats" or "high born", which both convey an identical meaning without being clichéd.

Try the Cliché Report with a free ProWritingAid account.

What Is an Oxymoron in Literature?

Oxymorons are often used in literature. As a literary device they can serve many functions. They can be used for emphasis, dramatic effect, or to highlight irony.

An oxymoron can confuse a reader intentionally, or paradoxically, it can offer clarity. It can be used for serious poignancy or for humor.

In short, an oxymoron is a versatile literary device . However, it's easily confused with other devices that involve contrast or contradiction.

An oxymoron uses opposing or contradictory terms to create a figure of speech.

A paradox is when two contrasting ideas are put together for the purposes of creating a comparison. At first, a paradox may not make sense, but it causes deeper reflection.

An example of a paradox in literature is from George Orwell's Animal Farm .

The quote "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others" might appear true at first, but nothing can be more equal than something else.

It causes the reader to really think about the nature of equality.

Irony is the difference between what a reader thinks should happen in a situation versus what is actually happening.

It plays with readers' expectations to demonstrate themes or build tension.

You might use an oxymoron to highlight irony, but irony isn't specifically related to a combination of words. It can also be more situational.

An example of dramatic irony comes from the play Oedipus Rex . Oedipus curses his father's killer, but he is unaware that he is actually his father's killer and has cursed himself.

An antithesis also uses opposing words or phrases like an oxymoron, but it plays with syntax to create emphasis on an idea.

Antithesis isn't just one phrase. It uses parallel structure in conjunction with opposing or unrelated words.

William Shakespeare uses antithesis in this quote from Hamlet : "Give every man thine ear, but few thy voice; take each man's censure, but reserve thy judgment."

Each line uses parallel structure and contrasting ideas.

Oxymoron is used frequently in literature because it can serve so many functions. In fact, certain literary genres are oxymorons themselves.

Science fiction , magical realism , and historical fiction are all oxymoronic. These phrases combine to create a whole new concept.

Shakespeare was a master of using oxymoron in his plays and poems. There are several examples in Romeo and Juliet , like the following quotes.

"Parting is such sweet sorrow ." Sorrow and sweet, while not directly antonyms, are contradictory in their connotations.

Here's a longer passage from the famous tragedy that uses multiple examples of oxymoron:

"Why, then, O brawling love ! O loving hate ! O anything, of nothing first create! O heavy lightness! Serious vanity ! Mis-shapen chaos of well-seeming forms ! Feather of lead , bright smoke , cold fire, sick health ! Still-waking sleep , that is not what it is! This love feel I, that feel no love in this."

In Animal Farm , George Orwell uses an oxymoron in the midst of a paradox: "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others."

By definition, it is impossible for something to be more equal than another because equal means the same.

Alfred, Lord Tennyson uses three examples of oxymoron in one sentence in Idylls of the King . Here's the famous quote about Lancelot:

"His honour rooted in dishonour stood, And faith unfaithful kept him falsely true ."

It illustrates his dilemma in the story. To be loyal to King Arthur, his friend, he must betray his love Guinevere, or vice versa.

In Charlotte Brontë's classic Jane Eyre , St. John describes his love Rosamond as " delicious poison ".

Like the Tennyson example above, this oxymoron highlights St. John's dilemma in choosing between love and honor.

In Fairies and the Quest for Never Land , Gail Carson Levine describes the character Vidia as a " loyal traitor ".

Oxymorons aren't just for classic literature. Keep reading for some more modern examples.

Artist Andy Warhol once described himself as a deeply superficial person. Technically, one cannot be deep and superficial, as these words are opposites.

There are plenty of other oxymoron examples in pop culture. The book and HBO hit series Big Little Lies has an oxymoron right in its title. There is a book by Kirker Butler called Pretty Ugly .

In 2018, a documentary about undocumented immigrants in the United States came out. It was called Waking Dream .

Hollywood hits Night of the Living Dead , True Lies , and Definitely, Maybe are all examples of oxymoron.

The John Legend song "All of Me" has a catchy verse with an oxymoron:

"All of me loves all of you

All your curves and all your edges

All your perfect imperfections ."

Nineties kids might remember the oxymoronic (and often outright moronic!) show CatDog .

Those same kids might have grown up to listen to Fall Out Boy's song " Alone Together " or Kelly Clarkson's " Beautiful Disaster ".

Their parents probably preferred Simon and Garfunkel's " The Sound of Silence " or the Beatles' " Hard Day's Night ".

In fact, the Simon and Garfunkel classic contains some powerful oxymorons in its lyrics:

"People talking without listening

People listening without hearing "

These are just a few oxymoron examples from pop culture. Listen for more examples from your music playlists or Netflix queue.

Dear reader, parting is such sweet sorrow, but hopefully now you understand how oxymorons take opposing words and turn them into new figures of speech.

From William Shakespeare to Fall Out Boy, you can see just how versatile oxymoron is as a literary device . Can you think of any more fun examples?

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Krystal N. Craiker is the Writing Pirate, an indie romance author and blog manager at ProWritingAid. She sails the seven internet seas, breaking tropes and bending genres. She has a background in anthropology and education, which brings fresh perspectives to her romance novels. When she’s not daydreaming about her next book or article, you can find her cooking gourmet gluten-free cuisine, laughing at memes, and playing board games. Krystal lives in Dallas, Texas with her husband, child, and basset hound.

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Literary Devices

Literary devices, terms, and elements, definition of oxymoron.

An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two seemingly opposing and contradictory elements are juxtaposed. In literature, oxymora, also known as oxymorons, often reveal a paradox .

The word oxymoron is in itself an oxymoron. It comes from the Ancient Greek word oxumoron , a compound of the words oxus , meaning “sharp” or “keen” and moros , meaning “dull” or “stupid.” Therefore it means something akin to wise foolishness.

Oxymora are often pairs of words, such as the adjective-noun combinations of a “new classic” or a “big sip,” or a noun-verb combination such as “the silence whistles.” Oxymora can also be found in phrases or sentences that have a juxtaposition of contradictory concepts.

Difference Between Oxymoron and Paradox

Oxymoron and paradox are very similar concepts, and the definition of oxymoron states that sometimes they may present a paradox. The difference is that a paradox often is used in literature to give unexpected insights, whereas an oxymoron does not necessarily lead to any insights. Paradoxes usually defy intuition in that they combine seemingly contradictory concepts to hint at a deeper truth. Oxymora, on the other hand, are often easy to grasp the meaning of even while the terms involved are usually used to mean opposite things.

Common Examples of Oxymoron

There are many examples of oxymoron that have become common phrases, such as:

• controlled chaos
• kill with kindness
• small giant
• original copy
• elevated subway

There are also many famous quotes that contain oxymora, such as:

• “I always avoid prophesying beforehand because it is much better to prophesy after the event has already taken place. ” – Winston Churchill
• “It’s a step forward although there was no progress.” – President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt
• “Nothing was stolen. I had an honest thief.” – Donald Trump
• “We must believe in free will. We have no choice.” – Isaac B. Singer
• “I am a deeply superficial person.” – Andy Warhol

Other languages have contributed oxymora to English, such as the Chinese concept of yin-yang. The famous black and white circular symbol that expresses yin-yang shows a drop of white in the black and side and, conversely, a small bit of black in the white side. This is meant to represent that even opposites contain a bit of each other. The yin-yang symbol is thus also a visual representation of oxymoron.

The Italian word pianoforte is also an oxymoron, in that piano means quite and forte means loud. This was the original name for the instrument that later became the piano (an abbreviation of the original word).

Significance of Oxymoron in Literature

Authors have used oxymora throughout the history of literature for many reasons. At times an oxymoron may call attention to the dual nature of an object or concept—something, for example, can be both sweet and sorrowful at the same time (Shakespeare famously wrote that “parting is such sweet sorrow”). This makes the reader think more deeply about the multiple meanings of experience. Oxymora also may just present a concept in a new light to emphasize the author’s creativity. The author Oscar Wilde used many oxymora for comedic effect, and many of these statements have entered popular consciousness, like his statement “I can resist anything, except temptation.”

Examples of Oxymoron in Literature

Alas, that love, whose view is muffled still, Should, without eyes, see pathways to his will! Where shall we dine?—O me! What fray was here? Yet tell me not, for I have heard it all. Here’s much to do with hate but more with love. Why then, O brawling love, O loving hate, O anything of nothing first created! O heavy lightness, serious vanity, Misshapen chaos of well-seeming forms! Feather of lead, bright smoke, cold fire, sick health, Still-waking sleep, that is not what it is! This love feel I, that feel no love in this.

( Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare)

Shakespeare used many oxymoron examples in his works, and his famous tragic play Romeo and Juliet contains several oxymora. In just this one short excerpt there are many oxymora back to back. For instance, “loving hate,” “heavy lightness,” “feather of lead,” “bright smoke,” “cold fire,” and “sick health” are all oxymoron examples. So too are the slightly longer lines, “O anything of nothing,” “Misshapen chaos of well-seeming forms,” and “This love feel I, that feel no love in this.” The interesting function of these many oxymora is to illustrate the difficult dualities of love and the extremes that a person may feel when in love. The theme of Romeo and Juliet is, of course, that of tragic love and the very relationship of the two lovers is an oxymoron, as Juliet states, “My only love sprung from my only hate!”

Down the close darkening lanes they sang their way To the siding-shed, And lined the train with faces grimly gay. Their breasts were stuck all white with wreath and spray As men’s are, dead.

(“The Send-Off” by Wilfred Owen)

In this poem by Wilfred Owen, soldiers are getting ready to go to war. They are trying to put on a good face as the public is sending them off, but they know they are heading into uncertainty and terror. Therefore, their faces are “grimly gay”—an oxymoron, but certainly understandable given the circumstances.

As for believing things, I can believe anything, provided that it is quite incredible.

( The Picture of Dorian Grey by Oscar Wilde)

Oscar Wilde, as stated above, loved using oxymora in his works for comedic effect. In this case, the oxymoron is created by the juxtaposition of “believe” and “incredible.” The word “incredible” stems etymologically from the negative form of “credible,” which means “believable.” Therefore, Wilde, in effect, has written that his character will believe anything that cannot be believed. This adds to a sense of the character having something of a wild imagination and being uninterested in anything that is too straightforward.

All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.

( Animal Farm by George Orwell)

In George Orwell’s famous satire Animal Farm , the animals kick out the human owners and attempt to govern the farm themselves. At first, the leader Napoleon creates seven commandments for them to follow, the most important of which is “All animals are equal.” However, as time goes on the commandments begin to change, just as Napoleon’s demeanor toward the rest of the animals starts to change. Eventually he changes this key commandment to the quote above: “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” Of course, this new commandment is one of many examples of oxymoron in the new leadership system. Some animals being “more” equal than others is not actually possible if one is to believe the first half of the statement. Orwell used this quote precisely to highlight the hypocrisies of the Russian Revolution. He wrote Animal Farm to critique the form of communism adopted in Russian after the revolution, showing that there was, indeed, no real equality in the new system.

Test Your Knowledge of Oxymoron

1. Which of the following statements is the best oxymoron definition? A. A completely nonsensical pairing of words that has no meaning when used together. B. A figure of speech in which seemingly contradictory terms are juxtaposed. C. A stupid phrase that is cliché d and trite.

2. Which of the following statements is an oxymoron example? A. Deliberate mistake B. Rotten banana C. Foolish idiot

3. Which of the following words, when following the word “partial,” create an oxymoron? A. Silence B. Success C. Cease-fire D. All of the above

4. Which of the following lines from Shakespeare’s “ Sonnet 72” contains an example of oxymoron? A. For you in me can nothing worthy prove B. Unless you would devise some virtuous lie C. My name be buried where my body is

What is an Oxymoron? Definition, Examples of Oxymoron in Literature

Home » The Writer’s Dictionary » What is an Oxymoron? Definition, Examples of Oxymoron in Literature

Oxymoron definition: An oxymoron is a type of figurative language that uses apparently contradictory terms.

What is an Oxymoron?

What is oxymoron? An oxymoron is a figure of speech. Therefore, the language itself is not literal, but figurative.

An oxymoron is a phrase that seems to use contradictory terms to express a particular thought or sentiment.

Example of Oxymoron:

• jumbo shrimp

Oxymoron vs. Paradox

What does oxymoron mean? An oxymoron is a figure of speech where two terms seem contradictory.

A paradox is a term that presents a situation where two events seem unlikely to coexist.

To separate the two, consider that a paradox is an event or a situation and an oxymoron is a figure of speech.

• “All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others.”

This is a paradox because, as a situation , these two events are contradictory. Furthermore, a paradox is generally a sentence or multiple sentences in length.

An oxymoron is paradoxical in nature but is a figure of speech rather than a situation or event. An oxymoron is generally only two terms in length.

The Function of an Oxymoron

Often, an oxymoron is used to express a particular sentiment that cannot be otherwise understood.

For example, the term “bittersweet” is an oxymoron. “Bitter” and “sweet” are contradictory. However, this term expresses a feeling that has both positive and negative aspects.

• If the sequel dwells on our bittersweet relationship with time, Hathaway, who is nursing her 8-week-old son Jonathan (with husband Adam Shulman), is definitely on her baby’s clock. – USA Today

Writers will use an oxymoron when they are trying to achieve a particular effect that is best understood through contradictions. Oftentimes, emotions are best expressed this way.

Oxymoron Examples in Literature

What is oxymoron in literature? In the opening act of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare writes lines for Romeo overflowing with oxymoron.

“Why then, O brawling love, O loving hate,

O anything of nothing first created!

O heavy lightness, serious vanity,

Misshapen chaos of well-seeming forms!

Feather of lead, bright smoke, cold fire, sick health,

Still-waking sleep, that is not what it is!

This love feel I, that feel no love in this.”

The use of oxymoron here is to emphasize Romeo’s emotions. He is frustrated with love and finds it best to express himself through opposites.

Again, oxymoron communicates emotions that are otherwise difficult to explain.

With the oxymoron use, the audience can feel and understand the gravity of Romeo’s difficulties. And, what is more difficult than expressing and defining love? The oxymoron as a literary tool and figure of speech work effectively here.

Summary: What is an Oxymoron?

Define oxymoron: the definition of oxymoron is a figure of speech that uses contradictory terms .

These terms express a particular sentiment that is best communicated through opposites.

Examples of Oxymoron:

• Great Depression
• Living dead
• Pain for pleasure
• Oddly normal

Learn English

Oxymoron: definition, types & examples.

Oxymoron is one of the few figures of speech that deals with contradictions of sense and meaning. In literature, oxymorons are used to imply the contractions in life that the standard words fail to accommodate due to the notions established on pure binaries.

What is Oxymoron?

Oxymoron is a figure of speech that is mostly used in literary language to create uncanny contrast between contradictory terms by putting them side by side.

The word “Oxymoron” is composed of two Greek words, “ oxys ” meaning sharp or keen and “ moros ” meaning dull, stupid or foolish, having completely contradictory meanings. In that sense, the term itself is oxymoronic in nature.

Types of Oxymorons

Oxymorons can be categorized into different types based on various factors. Depending on the circumstance that the oxymorons are used, they can be categorized as natural, literary, punning, humorous, accidental and deliberate oxymorons . Based on how many words make the oxymoron, they can be divided into single-word and double-word categories.

Single-word Oxymoron

In these oxymorons, two opposite or contrasting ideas are conjugated inside a single word. 

Dependent Morphemes

These sets of oxymorons are made out of two morphemes (the smallest unit in language) that construct a single word. The morphemes are dependent on one another to convey the full meaning. i.e. Fortepiano (that is the formal name of the piano; “piano” means soft and “forte” means loud), preposterous (it means to be devoid of reason; “pre” is something before the start and “post” means after the end of something), superette (small supermarket; “super” means bigger or better and the suffix, “-ette” indicates small) etc. 

Independent Morphemes

These single-word oxymorons can be split into two morphemes that carry contradictory meanings but sit together to represent a combination of both concepts no matter how distinct. The two morphemes in these oxymorons do not depend on one another to be complete. They individually make complete sense and join together to create a more refined meaning as figures of speech. i.e. Spendthrift (someone who spends loads; "spend" is to buy stuff with money and "thrift' means to not be wasteful), bridegroom (the guy getting married; "bride" is the wife and "groom" is the husband at their wedding), bittersweet (sweet but with a bitter aftertaste; "bitter" is a sharp pungent taste or smell and "sweet" is a soft pleasant taste or smell) etc.

Double-word Oxymoron

Any oxymoron that is not a single-word oxymoron is most certainly a double-word one since an oxymoron is about two contradictory ideas. These oxymorons consist of two completely opposite words standing separate from one another and emitting a deeper meaning when considered as one unit. i.e. industrial park, open secret, recorded live etc.

Example of Oxymorons

• Compound Word Oxymorons: Frenemy, love-hate, sophomore, oxymoron, pianoforte etc.
• Adjective + Noun Oxymorons: Controlled chaos, fine mess, deafening silence, peaceful war, heavy lightness etc.
• Adverb + Adjective Oxymorons: Strangely familiar, perfectly imperfect, painfully beautiful, definitely undecided etc.
• Phrasal Oxymoron: Act naturally, agree to disagree, kill with kindness, make haste slowly etc.
• Dead Metaphors: Awful(ly) good, barely clothed, hardly easy, damn(ed) good etc.
• Doublespeak Oxymorons: Real counterfeit, mandatory option, virtually spotless etc.
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What is an Oxymoron? Easy Definition, With Examples from Literature

by Fija Callaghan

You may not be familiar with the term “oxymoron,” but you’ve almost certainly come across them in your day-to-day conversations. In fact, some of your favorite books, films, and songs probably use oxymorons right in their title to catch their audiences’ attention. For instance, Liane Moriarty’s Big Little Lies and the film Eyes Wide Shut are both pop culture oxymorons. These titles show how using oxymorons as a literary device makes an idea stand out.

Let’s take a closer look at the oxymoron definition, the difference between oxymoron and paradox, and how to use them effectively in your writing. We’ll show you some famous oxymoron examples, too.

What is an oxymoron in literature?

An oxymoron is a literay device that uses two opposing or contradictory words to convey a new idea. While an oxymoron can seem counterintuitive at first, it often reveals a deep and surprising truth. “Old news” and “painfully beautiful” are examples of oxymorons.

Another common oxymoron example is “bittersweet” — the two root words, “bitter” and “sweet,” are inherently contradictory. Paired together, however, they create a deeper meaning. We see that two things that shouldn’t exist together do, in fact, coexist inside us all the time.

The word “oxymoron” comes from two Greek words which actually form their own oxymoron: oxus , which means “sharp,” and mōros , which means “dull-witted.” This sounds like two words that contradict each other. Like all good oxymorons, however, it contains another meaning: an oxymoron uses a phrase that sounds foolish (“dull-witted”) to communicate something wise (“sharp”).

The plural of oxymoron is “oxymora.” However, this word is falling out of fashion; these days, it’s more common to see oxymoron pluralized as “oxymorons.” Both are correct.

What’s the difference between oxymoron and paradox?

Oxymoron and paradox are similar literary devices that deal with contrasting ideas, but they’re not quite the same. An oxymoron, as we looked at above, is a word or phrase that uses two seemingly contradictory words with opposing meanings to communicate something new.

Both are rhetorical devices, but a paradox is like an oxymoron that’s been stretched out—instead of being only one or short phrase, a paradox can be a full sentence or more. That’s because instead of relying on literal contradictory words, a paradox comes from two contradictory ideas .

The word “paradox” comes from an ancient Greek word, parádoxos , which means “contrary or unexpected.” Paradoxes and oxymorons can both be use to heighten the dramatic effect of a story.

A famous literary example of paradox happens in George Orwell’s Animal Farm : “All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others.” This presents two ideas that cannot exist side by side—how can something be more or less equal to something else? Orwell uses paradox to illustrate the underlying themes of his work.

We encounter paradoxes in everyday life, too. For example, “The more you know, the more you realize you don’t know” and “you have to spend money to make money” are two paradoxes that contain a deeper, underlying truth. Nick Lowe’s song “Cruel to be Kind” and Huey Lewis and the News’ “Hip to be Square” are both examples of paradoxes because they use contradictory terms.

What’s the difference between oxymoron and juxtaposition?

Juxtaposition is a broad literary device that uses contrast for effect. Oxymorons and paradoxes are both types of juxtaposition, because they both use contrasting words to engage the reader.

However, juxtaposition can be much bigger than that. In addition to juxtaposing words or ideas, a writer can juxtapose characters , settings, themes, dialects, rhythms, and so much more. By using these contrasting elements in a story, you can heighten the effect and resonance of your writing.

You can learn more about effective ways to use juxtaposition in a story here .

The purpose of oxymoron in writing

In literature, oxymorons can do a few cool things in our writing. Let’s take a look at what purpose they serve when we use them in a story.

Oxymorons create drama

Well-placed oxymorons tend to heighten the dramatic effect and underline the theme of a moment, because they communicate something deeper than the individual root words could on their own.

For example, if your character “smiles sadly,” that’s an oxymoron—two words that are fundamentally contradictory. Paired side by side, however, each one gives the other a more complex meaning and lets the reader deeper into the scene. This oxymoron suggests another layer of meaning behind the simple action of smiling. You can use oxymorons to make the reader pause and think about what the characters are experiencing in that moment.

Oxymorons introduce irony

Sometimes, oxymorons can be used to add irony and communicate something new about character, theme, or setting. By expressing an idea as an oxymoron during your scene, you’ll give the story another facet to engage the reader’s attention.

Examples of ironic oxymorons might be things like “an honest politician,” “business ethics,” “civil war,” or “bus schedule.” Be mindful that these phrases won’t necessarily feel ironic to everyone, and so they should be used cautiously; however, you can use them to show your characters and the way your characters view the world around them.

Oxymorons highlight humor

Oxymorons can also be used to make your readers laugh or lend a lighter tone to a story. One example happens in the musical Wicked when the character Fiyero says,

“There’s no pretense here. I happen to be genuinely self-absorbed and deeply shallow.”

You can use oppositional words to create humorous moments and illustrate important traits in your characters.

Oxymoron examples from everyday speech

As you can see, oxymoron is a literary device that’s around us all the time. We use it in our everyday conversation without even realizing it. Here are some common oxymoron examples that you’ve probably come across in the English language. As you read them, notice the contradictions in each one:

Open secret

Same difference

Deafening silence

Friendly fight

Only choice

Virtual reality

Act naturally

Magical realism

Controlled chaos

Freezer burn

Whole piece

Silent scream

Terribly good

Close distance

Cruel kindness

Stiff drink

True fiction

Black light

Clearly confused

Organized mess

Living history

Exact estimate

Student teacher

Passive aggressive

Smaller half

Jumbo shrimp

Loyal opponent

Random order

Small crowd

Oxymoron examples from literature

Now that we’ve answered the question “What is an oxymoron” and showed you why it’s a helpful tool for creative writers, let’s take a look at how other writers have used oxymoron and paradox in their work.

Julius Caesar , by William Shakespeare

To visit other places; and come down With fearful bravery, thinking by this face To fasten in our thoughts that they have courage

William Shakespeare loved using oxymorons in his plays and sonnets because they make the reader think about the true meaning of the words. In these example sentences, he’s used the oxymoron “fearful bravery,” two apparent contradictions, to indicate a false show of courage.

You can find other Shakespearean oxymorons in Romeo and Juliet (“O brawling love! O loving hate!,” “Parting is such sweet sorrow,” and “A damned saint, an honorable villain!”); Twelfth Night (“In the sweet pangs of it remember me,” and “I am slain by a fair cruel maid”); A Midsummer Night’s Dream (“A tedious brief scene of young Pyramus and his love Thisby; very tragical mirth”), and a range of his other work.

Jane Eyre , by Charlotte Brontë

And now it is deluged with a nectarous flood—the young germs swamped—delicious poison cankering them: now I see myself stretched on an ottoman in the drawing-room at Vale Hall, at my bride Rosamond Oliver’s feet.

Here Charlotte Brontë uses the oxymoron “delicious poison” to illustrate the dual nature of passionate love. Big emotions like love, hate, fear, and ambition—the cornerstones of many literary themes—work well with oxymorons because these feelings are naturally conflicting in nature. That’s why you’ll see so many writers using oxymorons to show the push and pull, the darkness and light, of love.

“Oxymoronic Love,” by Jennifer Militello

Jennifer Militello’s poem is actually full of paradoxes, rather than oxymorons, but it’s worth mentioning due to the use of oxymoron in the title. The poet likely chose it to illustrate to the reader that love is full of contradiction. Consider this brief phrase:

The hunger leaves us satisfied, the fullness leaves us wrung.

This poem uses seemingly opposing images and ideas to explore the complexity of the human heart. Here we see how these oxymorons have been stretched into broader thoughts to accommodate the rhythm of the poem.

Contradictory words are a bittersweet literary device

Oxymorons have become a mainstay of our everyday language, and they’re effective for creating drama, irony, and humor in literature too! Now that you’re an expert on oxymorons and paradoxes, you can use them to create terrible beauty and exquisite agony in your own story.

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Table of contents, introduction.

• What is an Oxymoron?

Why Do Writers Use Oxymorons?

Oxymoron vs. paradox.

• Examples of Oxymorons in Everyday Conversations
• Examples of Oxymorons in Literature

An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory or opposing words to create a paradoxical and thought-provoking expression, often used for rhetorical effect.

In this article, we will define this figure of speech and illustrate it with examples from literature.

Let’s get started with understanding what an oxymoron means!

What Is An Oxymoron?

An  oxymoron  is a figure of speech that combines incongruous or contradictory terms. The plural is  oxymorons  or  oxymora .

The term “oxymoron” originates from the Greek language, where “oxus” means “sharp” or “keen,” and “moros” means “foolish” or “dull.” Combining these elements, the term evolved to describe a rhetorical device that juxtaposes contradictory or seemingly incompatible words for expressive impact.

Oxymorons often involve the combination of contradictory or opposing terms for rhetorical effect. The following examples showcase both adjective-noun and noun-verb combinations:

Adjective-noun oxymorons:

• Deafening silence
• Living dead
• Open secret
• Virtual reality
• Organized chaos

Noun-verb oxymoron:

• The silence whistles

These combinations create a striking contrast, emphasizing the paradoxical nature of the expressions.

Writers use oxymorons as a literary device to enhance their language, create impact, and convey nuanced meanings. The juxtaposition of contradictory terms adds depth and complexity to their expressions. Here are some purposes for which writers employ oxymorons:

• Vivid Language:  Oxymorons contribute to the creation of vivid and memorable language.
• Thought Provocation:  They provoke thought by introducing apparent contradictions.
• Emotional Engagement:  The contrasting elements evoke emotions, making the writing more impactful.
• Highlighting Complexity:  They emphasize the complexity or irony inherent in a concept.
• Rhetorical Flair:  Writers use them to add rhetorical flair, making their writing more compelling.

Oxymoron and paradox are both literary devices that involve the juxtaposition of seemingly contradictory elements. While they share similarities, they serve distinct purposes in language and literature.

An oxymoron as explained above is a figure of speech that combines two seemingly contradictory or opposing words to create a paradoxical effect. They are used to evoke emotion, emphasize contrasts, and highlight the complexity of a concept or situation.

• Examples:  “Bitter sweet,” “deafening silence,” “jumbo shrimp.”

A paradox, on the other hand, is a statement or situation that appears contradictory but may reveal a deeper truth upon closer examination. It is used to challenge conventional thinking, provoke thought, and often convey profound insights or truths about human experience.

• Examples:  “Less is more,” “I can resist anything except temptation,” “the beginning of the end.”

The differences between the two figures of speech lie in the following:

• Structure:  Oxymorons are typically short phrases with juxtaposed words, creating a vivid contrast in a few words. Paradoxes often involve longer statements or situations that seem contradictory at first glance.
• Purpose:  Oxymorons aim to evoke specific emotions and emphasize the juxtaposition of contrasting elements. Paradoxes, on the other hand, often aim to challenge and provoke thought, revealing hidden truths or insights.

Here is an illustrative table:

Examples Of Oxymorons In Everyday Conversations

Here’s a table with common oxymorons and sentences using them:

Examples Of Oxymorons In Literature

Oxymorons are frequently used in literature:

Juliet Sweet, so would I, Yet I should kill thee with much cherishing. Good night, good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow, That I shall say good night till it be morrow. From “Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare

The oxymoron is present in the phrase “Parting is such sweet sorrow.” This expression combines contradictory terms, suggesting that saying goodbye is both sweet (pleasant or joyful) and sorrowful (painful or sad). The oxymoron captures the bittersweet nature of farewells, emphasizing the complex and conflicting emotions experienced in the act of parting.

Romeo Here’s much to do with hate, but more with love. Why, then, O brawling love, O loving hate, O anything of nothing first created, O heavy lightness, serious vanity, Misshapen chaos of well-seeming forms, Feather of lead, bright smoke, cold fire, sick health, Still-waking sleep that is not what it is. This love feel I, that feel no love in this. From “Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare

In this evocative excerpt from Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” the use of oxymorons contributes to the conflicting emotions and paradoxes that characterize the speaker’s experience with love. Oxymorons are skillfully employed to convey the intricate nature of the speaker’s feelings. Each oxymoron serves as a linguistic device, weaving together seemingly opposing concepts to encapsulate the complexity, inner turmoil, and nuances of the speaker’s emotions.

Here are examples from the passage:

• Meaning:  Implies a weight or burden associated with something typically considered light.
• Explanation:  The speaker expresses a sense of heaviness or burden in their emotions, contrasting with the lightness often associated with love.
• Meaning:  Combines seriousness and vanity, suggesting depth in something often perceived as trivial.
• Explanation:  The speaker highlights the profound or significant nature of an element that is usually associated with superficiality or triviality.
• Meaning:  Suggests disorder within the appearance of order or beauty.
• Explanation:  The speaker conveys the idea that outward appearances can be deceptive, hiding inner chaos or disorder beneath a well-structured facade.
• Meaning:  Implies a combination of lightness and heaviness.
• Explanation:  The speaker describes a conflicting emotional state, where the lightness associated with a feather is juxtaposed with the heaviness of lead, emphasizing the paradox of their feelings.
• Meaning:  Combines brightness with the insubstantial or elusive quality of smoke.
• Explanation:  The speaker suggests that something vivid or bright is also intangible or elusive, underscoring the fleeting nature of the emotions.
• Meaning:  Conveys intensity or passion without warmth.
• Explanation:  The speaker describes a love or desire that is emotionally distant or lacks the warmth typically associated with such feelings.
• Meaning:  Implies compromised or unhealthy well-being.
• Explanation:  The speaker describes a state of well-being that is paradoxically unhealthy or compromised, reflecting the complexities of their emotional state.
• Meaning:  Suggests a sleep-like state that is not restful or peaceful.
• Explanation:  The speaker describes a restless or troubled mental state, using the oxymoron to convey the paradox of a sleep-like condition that lacks tranquility.

Sweet scorn, sweet anger, and sweet misery, Forgiveness sweet, sweet burden, and sweet ill; Sweet accents that mine ear so sweetly thrill, That sweetly bland, now sweetly fierce can be. Mourn not, my soul, but suffer silently; And those embitter’d sweets thy cup that fill With the sweet honour blend of loving still Her whom I told: “Thou only pleasest me.” Hereafter, moved with envy, some may say: “For that high-boasted beauty of his day Enough the bard has borne!” then heave a sigh. Others: “Oh! why, most hostile Fortune, why Could not these eyes that lovely form survey? Why was she early born, or wherefore late was I?” By  Francesco Petrarca

This  passage  is rich with examples of oxymorons, capturing the complex and contradictory nature of the emotions expressed. While there are many instances, we will focus on three to illustrate the nuanced use of this literary device:

• Explanation:  The juxtaposition of “sweet” and “scorn” combines positive and negative emotions, portraying a complex and conflicting attitude.
• Explanation:  Similar to “sweet scorn,” the pairing of “sweet” with “anger” conveys a mix of positive and negative sentiments, emphasizing the paradoxical nature of the emotional experience.
• Explanation:  This oxymoron suggests that the burden, typically associated with something heavy or troublesome, is endowed with sweetness, adding layers of complexity to the emotional weight being carried.

These chosen examples showcase how oxymorons in the passage contribute to portraying intricate and contradictory feelings within the context of love and forgiveness.

“Lady Russell had only to listen composedly, and wish them happy, but internally her heart revelled in angry pleasure, in pleased contempt, that the man who at twenty-three had seemed to understand somewhat of the value of an Anne Elliot, should, eight years afterwards, be charmed by a Louisa Musgrove.” From “Persuasion” by Jane Austen

In “Persuasion” by Jane Austen, the oxymoron “angry pleasure” describes Lady Russell’s conflicting emotions. While she outwardly wishes happiness for others, internally she takes some satisfaction or enjoyment in observing a shift of affections. However, this pleasure is accompanied by anger, as the situation involves the man who once valued Anne Elliot now being charmed by another woman, Louisa Musgrove, after eight years. The oxymoron captures the complexity of Lady Russell’s feelings in this romantic context.

In conclusion, an oxymoron serves as a potent literary device, offering a succinct and impactful means of expressing complex ideas by juxtaposing seemingly contradictory terms.

While it shares a connection with the broader concept of paradox, which involves statements or situations that appear contradictory yet reveal deeper truths, an oxymoron is specifically concerned with the fusion of opposing words within a concise phrase.

Using oxymorons in your writing not only adds richness and depth to the language but also allows for the creation of vivid contrasts.

Related Pages:

• More figures of speech
• Articles about writing

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Definition and Examples of Oxymoron

Oxymoron (literally, the “sense” in the masquerade of “folly” ), is a collocation of two or more logically contradictory terms in a sentence, that literally correspond with one another in sense, such as:

“A coward dies often, a brave man but once”

“He is a living death” (said of a man in a consumption, or of a malefactor under condemnation.)

“An idiot or a madman is his own grave”

Oxymoron also consists in how the afflictions of a righteous man may be termed, in accordance to the blessed notion in which the Scripture signifies them:

“salutary wounds”

“healthful diseases”

“happy pains”

“profitable losses”

“bitter sweets,” and

“exalting absements”

Oxymoron may be regarded as a sub-set of paradox Opens in new window , which encompasses a broader spectrum of logically contradictory terms.

The term is first recorded as latinized Greek oxymōrum, in Maurus Servius Honoratus Opens in new window (c. AD 400); it is derived from the Greek ὀξύς oksús “sharp, keen, pointed” and μωρόςmōros “dull, stupid, foolish”; as it were,

“sharp-dull”, “keenly stupid”, or “pointedly foolish”.

Hence, the word oxymoron is autological Opens in new window , i.e. it is itself a signification of an Oxymoron .

Notable Examples in the Scriptures

Instances of Oxymoron may be found with in the Scriptures:

— (Prov. xi:24)

— (Acts v:41)

(Here, Glory and shame seem so contradictory; but it is the highest honour to be used with indignity for the cause of Christ and his testimony.)

Notable Examples in the Literature

We may meet with examples of Oxymoron in some of the finest erudite scholars:

• He is unmercifully merciful ; said of the character of a Prince who does not punish flagitious offenders in such a manner, as a wise regard to the general good of his subjects requires.

— (Dr. Young)

— (Dr. Barrow, Sermon on the Profitableness of Godliness, vol. 1. P. 17)

— (Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet, 1.1.175 – 177)

— (By O. Henry, on describing New York in his story, The Duel [1910]).

Similar Figures of Contrary

•  Irony Opens in new window
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• Thomas O. Sloane, Encyclopedia of Rhetoric, Volume 1 . Oxymoron Opens in new window
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• Literary Terms
• Figures of Speech
• Definition & Examples
• When & How to Use Figures of Speech

I. What are Figures of Speech?

A figure of speech is a word or phrase using figurative language—language that has other meaning than its normal definition. In other words, figures of speeches rely on implied or suggested meaning, rather than a dictionary definition.  We express and develop them through hundreds of different rhetorical techniques, from specific types like metaphors and similes , to more general forms like sarcasm and slang.

Figures of speech make up a huge portion of the English language, making it more creative, more expressive, and just more interesting! Many have been around for hundreds of years—some even thousands—and more are added to our language essentially every day. This article will focus on a few key forms of figures of speech, but remember, the types are nearly endless!

III. Types of Figure of Speech

There are countless figures of speech in every language, and they fall into hundreds of categories. Here, though, is a short list of some of the most common types of figure of speech:

A. Metaphor

Many common figures of speech are metaphors. That is, they use words in a manner other than their literal meaning. However, metaphors use figurative language to make comparisons between unrelated things or ideas. The “peak of her career,” for example, is a metaphor, since a career is not a literal mountain with a peak , but the metaphor represents the idea of arriving at the highest point of one’s career.

An idiom is a common phrase with a figurative meaning. Idioms are different from other figures of speech in that their figurative meanings are mostly known within a particular language, culture, or group of people. In fact, the English language alone has about 25,000 idioms. Some examples include “it’s raining cats and dogs” when it is raining hard, or “break a leg” when wishing someone good luck.

This sentence uses an idiom to make it more interesting:

There’s a supermarket and a pharmacy in the mall, so if we go there, we can kill two birds with one stone.

The idiom is a common way of saying that two tasks can be completed in the same amount of time or same place.

A proverb is a short, commonplace saying that is universally understood in today’s language and used to express general truths. “Don’t cry over spilt milk” is a popular example. Most proverbs employ metaphors (e.g. the proverb about milk isn’t  literally  about milk).

This example uses a proverb to emphasize the situation:

I know you think you’re going to sell all of those cookies, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch!

Here, “don’t count your chickens before they hatch” means that you shouldn’t act like something has happened before it actually does.

A simile is a very common figure of speech that uses the words “like” and “as” to compare two things that are not related by definition. For example, “he is as tall as a mountain,” doesn’t mean he was actually 1,000 feet tall, it just means he was really tall.

This example uses a simile for comparison:

The internet is like a window to the world —you can learn about everything online!

The common phrase “window to the world” refers to a hypothetical window that lets you see the whole world from it. So, saying the internet is like a window to the world implies that it lets you see anything and everything.

E. Oxymoron

An oxymoron is when you use two words together that have contradictory meanings. Some common examples include s mall crowd, definitely possible, old news, little giant , and so on.

A metonym is a word or phrase that is used to represent something related to bigger meaning. For example, fleets are sometimes described as being “thirty sails strong,” meaning thirty (curiously, this metonym survives in some places, even when the ships in question are not sail-powered!) Similarly, the crew on board those ships may be described as “hands” rather than people.

Irony is when a word or phrase’s literal meaning is the opposite of its figurative meaning. Many times (but not always), irony is expressed with sarcasm (see Related Terms). For example, maybe you eat a really bad cookie, and then say “Wow, that was the best cookie I ever had”—of course, what you really mean is that it’s the worst cookie you ever had, but being ironic actually emphasizes just how bad it was!

IV. The Importance of Figures of Speech

In general, the purpose of a figure of speech is to lend texture and color to your writing. (This is itself a figure of speech, since figures of speech don’t actually change the colors or textures on the page!) For instance, metaphors allow you to add key details that make the writing more lively and relatable. Slang and verbal irony, on the other hand, make the writing seem much more informal and youthful (although they can have the opposite effect when misused!) Finally, other figures of speech, like idioms and proverbs, allows a writer to draw on a rich cultural tradition and express complex ideas in a short space.

V. Examples of Figures of Speech in Literature

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances, and one man in his time plays many parts.” (William Shakespeare, As You Like It)

This is one of the most famous metaphors ever crafted in the English language. Shakespeare uses his extended metaphor to persuade the audience of the similarities between the stage and real life. But rather than making his play seem more like life, he suggests that life is more like a play. His metaphor calls attention to the performative, creative, and fictional aspects of human life.

“Our words are b ut crumbs that fall down from the feast o f the mind.” (Khalil Gibran, Sand & Foam )

Gibran’s timeless metaphor succeeds for a number of reasons. For one thing, it is not a cliché – had Gibran said “words are just the tip of the iceberg ,” he would have been making roughly the same point, but in a much more clichéd way. But the feast of the mind is a highly original metaphor. In addition, it’s a successful double metaphor. The crumbs and the feast are two parts of the same image, but they work together rather than being “mixed” (see How to Use Figures of Speech ).

“If you chase two rabbits, you will lose them both.” (Russian Proverb)

Like many proverbs, this one draws on a simple metaphor of chasing rabbits. The rabbits can stand in for all sorts of objectives, from jobs to relationships, but the coded message is quite clear – focus your energy on a single objective, or you will likely fail. This literal statement, though, is quite dry and not terribly memorable, which shows the power of figures of speech.

VI. Examples of Figures of Speech in Pop Culture

The chorus to Sean Kingston’s Fire Burning contains a couple of figures of speech. First of all, there’s the word “shorty” used as a slang term (see Related Terms ) for a young woman. She may or may not be literally short, but the figure of speech applies either way (though it could easily be taken as belittling and derogatory). Second, Kingston sings the metaphor: “she’s fire, burning on the dance floor.” Hopefully this is a figure of speech and not a literal statement; otherwise, Kingston and everyone else in the club are in mortal danger!

“Oh, thanks! This is much better!” (Townspeople, South Park )

This is an example of irony. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, South Park satirized the government’s response to the disaster by writing about a similar disaster in South Park. In a bumbling effort to rescue people from the floods, the authorities accidentally spill oil on the flood waters and set it on fire, making the situation far more dangerous. In response, they ironically “thank” the people responsible—their meaning is obviously the opposite of their words!

Years of talks between Washington and Havana resulted in Obama’s historic visit to Cuba on March 21st. (Patreon 2016)

This is a common form of metonym in foreign policy and news media. The capital city of a country is used as a metonym for the national government. The talks, of course, are not literally between these two cities, but between the leaders and government officials of the two countries (US and Cuba).

VII. Related Terms

Literal and figurative language.

Language is generally divided into two categories: literal, and figurative. Literal language relies on the real definition of words and phrases, or their literal meanings. Figurative language, on the other hand, relies on implied meanings, which can be understood differently depending on the location or who is using it. For example, “the sky is blue” relies on the literal definition of the word “blue,” while “I am feeling blue” relies on the figurative definition. All figures of speech rely on the use of figurative language for their meaning.

Sarcasm is mocking or bitter language that we use to express different meaning than what we say; often the exact opposite. When your intended meaning is the opposite of the literal meaning, that’s irony (another type of figure of speech), which includes common phrases like “Oh, great…” when you really mean something is bad.

Slang is language that uses atypical words and phrases to express specific meanings. It varies greatly by region, demographic, and language—for example, you would find different slang in the U.S. and in the U.K. even though they are both English speaking countries. Likewise, teenagers and the elderly will use different slang terms, as would Spanish and English. Many slang terms are figures of speech. For example, “bro” could be used to describe a friend rather than an actual brother; this would be using the word as a figure of speech.

List of Terms

• Alliteration
• Amplification
• Anachronism
• Anthropomorphism
• Antonomasia
• APA Citation
• Aposiopesis
• Autobiography
• Bildungsroman
• Characterization
• Circumlocution
• Cliffhanger
• Comic Relief
• Connotation
• Deus ex machina
• Deuteragonist
• Doppelganger
• Double Entendre
• Dramatic irony
• Equivocation
• Extended Metaphor
• Flash-forward
• Foreshadowing
• Intertextuality
• Juxtaposition
• Literary Device
• Malapropism
• Onomatopoeia
• Parallelism
• Pathetic Fallacy
• Personification
• Point of View
• Polysyndeton
• Protagonist
• Red Herring
• Rhetorical Device
• Rhetorical Question
• Science Fiction
• Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
• Synesthesia
• Turning Point
• Understatement
• Urban Legend
• Verisimilitude
• Essay Guide
• Cite This Website

Understanding Oxymorons: Definition, Examples, and Usage

What is an oxymoron, origin of oxymorons, common examples of oxymorons, how to use oxymorons in speech and writing, why oxymorons matter in literature, oxymorons in pop culture.

Get ready to explore the fascinating world of language. Today, we're diving deep into the concept of oxymorons, those quirky, seemingly contradictory phrases you've likely heard before. They can seem a little confusing, but by the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of the definition of oxymoron, where they come from, some common examples, and how they're used. So, let's get started!

An oxymoron, at its core, is a figure of speech. But it's not just any figure of speech. It's a special kind that puts together two words which, at first glance, appear to contradict each other. But the magic of oxymorons is that they make perfect sense once you think about them.

The Definition of Oxymoron

So, what's the specific definition of oxymoron? In simple terms, an oxymoron is a combination of two words or phrases that seem to contradict each other, but they actually express a truth or a dramatic effect. The term "oxymoron" itself is an oxymoron. It comes from the Greek words "oxys," meaning "sharp," and "moros," meaning "foolish."

Oxymorons in Action

Want to see an oxymoron in action? Let's take the popular phrase "deafening silence." Now, you might think, "Wait a minute, silence can't be deafening—it's silent!" But picture this: You're in a room full of people and suddenly, everyone stops talking. The silence is so intense and unexpected—it's deafening. See? That's an oxymoron for you!

Why Do Oxymorons Work?

You might wonder why we would use oxymorons when they seem to contradict themselves. Well, oxymorons work because they catch our attention. They make us stop and think. They're unexpected and interesting. And that's exactly why they're such a powerful tool in speech and writing—they make us pay attention and remember what's being said. Plus, they're pretty fun once you get the hang of them!

Now that we've gotten a handle on the definition of oxymoron, let's take a step back in time and explore where oxymorons come from. Don't worry, we won't go all the way back to the dinosaurs—although that would be a "giant miniature" adventure, wouldn't it?

The Greek Connection

As with many things in the world of language and literature, the story of oxymorons begins in ancient Greece. The term "oxymoron" itself is Greek, combining 'oxys' meaning 'sharp' and 'moros' meaning 'dull' or 'foolish'. It's an oxymoron in itself—sharp and dull at the same time! Isn't language fun?

Evolution of Oxymorons

Over time, the use of oxymorons has evolved. They started as rhetorical devices in Greek literature, used to express complex truths and paradoxes. Fast forward a few centuries, and we see oxymorons cropping up in works of great writers like Shakespeare. They've found their way into poetry, prose, and everyday speech, adding a dash of dramatic flair and thought-provoking complexity.

Oxymorons Today

Today, we encounter oxymorons more often than we realize. They're in our songs, movies, advertisements, and even our casual conversations. They've become a part of our linguistic fabric, adding color and depth to our communication. And the best part? Once you start spotting them, you'll see oxymorons everywhere. It's like a fun, language-based treasure hunt!

Now that we've traveled through time to understand the origins of oxymorons, let's bring things back to the present. We're surrounded by oxymorons in our everyday language, and sometimes, we use them without even realizing it. Ready to discover some common oxymorons? Let's dive in!

Everyday Oxymorons

• Deafening Silence: Ever been in a room so quiet that the silence itself seems loud? That's a perfect example of an oxymoron!
• Bittersweet: This one's used to describe a feeling that's both sweet and bitter at the same time. Like saying goodbye to a friend moving to an exciting new place—happy for them, but sad for yourself.
• Original Copy: This is a classic oxymoron. How can something be both original and a copy? Well, that's where the magic of oxymorons lies!

Oxymorons in Literature

In literature, oxymorons have been used to convey deep and complex emotions. Remember the classic Shakespearean line, "Parting is such sweet sorrow "? That's an oxymoron right there!

Pop culture isn't left out when it comes to oxymorons. Think about the movie title " Terminator: Dark Fate ". The 'Dark Fate' is an oxymoron, as fate is usually associated with something predetermined and clear, while 'dark' suggests mystery and uncertainty.

As you can see, once you understand the definition of oxymoron and start looking for them, you'll find these little linguistic gems everywhere. They add a layer of depth and irony to our language, making communication more colorful and engaging.

Now that we've seen oxymorons in action, you might be wondering, "How can I use these in my own speech and writing?" Well, the answer is simple—just like you'd use any other figure of speech! Oxymorons can add depth, irony, or humor to your words. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Using Oxymorons for Emphasis

One of the best ways to use an oxymoron is to draw attention to a particular idea or concept. For example, saying "She's a giant dwarf " might sound contradictory, but it actually emphasizes the uniqueness of her size.

Using Oxymorons to Convey Complex Emotions

Life isn't always black and white, and sometimes, our feelings can be pretty complicated. That's where oxymorons come in! They can help you express those complex emotions that can't be summed up in a single word. Feeling happy and sad at the same time? That's bittersweet!

Using Oxymorons for Humor

Oxymorons can also add a touch of humor to your speech or writing. Ever heard of a " working vacation "? That's an oxymoron that's sure to get a chuckle!

So there you have it! With these tips in mind, you're ready to start using oxymorons in your own speech and writing. Remember, the main goal here isn't just to learn the definition of oxymoron, but to understand how they can enrich our language and communication.

Now that we've talked about using oxymorons in everyday speech and writing, let's shift our focus to another interesting area—literature. You might wonder, "Why do oxymorons matter in literature?" Well, it turns out, they play a pretty big role!

Adding Depth to Characters

Authors often use oxymorons to add depth to their characters. For instance, a character might be described as a " wise fool ", suggesting complexity and contradiction within their personality. This makes the characters more intriguing and relatable to readers.

Creating Dramatic Effect

Oxymorons also have the power to create dramatic effect. Take Juliet's line from Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet": "Parting is such sweet sorrow ". This oxymoron beautifully captures the complex emotion of her situation—being both in love and in despair.

Enhancing Literary Imagery

Finally, oxymorons can enhance literary imagery. They help paint a vivid picture that stays with the reader long after the book is closed. For example, the phrase " deafening silence " creates a powerful image that is both thought-provoking and memorable.

In conclusion, oxymorons are more than just a quirky figure of speech. They are a powerful literary tool that can bring characters to life, create drama, and paint vibrant pictures. So next time you come across an oxymoron, remember it's not just about the definition of oxymoron—it's about understanding the depth and beauty it brings to language and literature.

Just by understanding the definition of oxymoron, you can see how intriguing they are. But did you know that oxymorons are also a staple in pop culture? Let's dive into some fascinating examples.

Musical Oxymorons

Oxymorons are often used in song lyrics to convey complex emotions and situations. For example, the phrase " living dead " is used in many songs to express feelings of emptiness or desolation. Likewise, the term " cruel kindness " has been used to describe conflicting emotions in relationships. So next time you listen to your favorite song, keep an ear out for these clever contradictions!

Oxymorons in Movies and TV Shows

Movies and TV shows also love to toss around oxymorons. They are used to create humor, introduce paradoxes, and make dialogues more lively and interesting. For instance, have you ever noticed how characters often speak of a " small crowd " or a " minor crisis "? These are classic examples of oxymorons that add flavor to scripts.

Branding and Advertising

Lastly, oxymorons are frequently used in branding and advertising. They help create catchy and memorable phrases that draw attention. Think of brands like " Microsoft Works ", or ad campaigns that use phrases like " seriously funny ". These oxymorons make a strong impression and stick in your mind.

In short, pop culture is teeming with oxymorons. They add spice to songs, depth to dialogues, and punch to brands. So the next time you see a movie, listen to a song, or see an ad, remember to spot the oxymorons. They're everywhere once you start looking!

If you're intrigued by the concept of oxymorons and want to explore similar ideas, check out the workshop ' A Way of Life Beyond Good & Evil ' by Rabih Salloum. This workshop will help you delve deeper into the understanding of seemingly contradictory concepts and how they can coexist, enriching your perspective on language and philosophy.

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Oxymoron: Definition, Examples, and Usage

Whether used in a sentence or as a standalone phrase, an oxymoron can be a powerful tool for communication. It can help to create a sense of tension or contrast, and can leave a lasting impression on the listener or reader. Understanding the use of oxymorons is an important part of literary analysis, and can help readers to better understand the deeper meaning behind a piece of writing.

Oxymoron Definition

An  oxymoron  is a figure of speech that combines two contradictory or incongruous words to create a meaningful expression. It is derived from the Greek words “oxys” meaning “sharp, keen” and “moros” meaning “foolish.” By juxtaposing opposing ideas, oxymorons can evoke a deeper or hidden truth and are often used for emphasis, humor, or thought-provoking purposes.

For example, phrases like “deafening silence,” “bittersweet,” and “original copy” are all oxymorons. They may appear illogical or paradoxical at first glance, but when considered within context, they often serve to illustrate a particular point or enhance the intended message.

In a dictionary, an oxymoron is typically defined as a combination of contradictory terms, which may include adjective-noun pairs or other forms of word pairing in a phrase. While some oxymorons are commonly used in everyday language, others are crafted intentionally by writers to enrich their work with striking imagery and thought-provoking concepts.

Overall, oxymorons are a versatile figure of speech that can be employed in various ways to heighten the impact of language and convey complex ideas through a concise and memorable expression.

Oxymoron Examples

Oxymoron is a figure of speech in which seemingly contradictory terms appear side by side, creating an interesting and sometimes humorous effect. These rhetorical devices can often be found in literature, conversation, and everyday speech. Oxymorons in sentences often illustrate the complexity of human emotions or situations and can add depth to characters or situations in a story.

Shakespeare  was proficient at using oxymorons, particularly in his play  Romeo and Juliet . The famous scene where Juliet speaks to herself about her love for Romeo features several poignant examples. She says, “O brawling love, O loving hate,” describing the conflicting emotions she feels towards the Montague family. This juxtaposition of contradictory terms highlights the emotional turmoil Juliet is enduring.

Moreover, other well-known oxymoron examples in literature and speech include:

• Bittersweet
• Deafening silence
• Passive-aggressive
• Awfully good
• Original copy

In each of these instances, the words have opposite meanings, yet their combination creates a striking and evocative image or situation that engages the reader or listener. For example, the term “deafening silence” paints a vivid picture of a situation that is so quiet that it feels loud or significant.

Oxymorons serve various purposes in language and rhetoric. They can emphasize an irony or paradox, add humor to a situation, or simply create memorable phrases that engage the audience. While some oxymorons are intentionally created for a particular effect, others arise naturally as language evolves and adapts to new ideas and situations.

In conclusion, oxymoron examples in speech and literature abound, offering insight into the intricacies of human emotion, thought, and language. These contrasting terms may appear contradictory, but they serve as potent rhetorical devices that add depth, humor, and clarity to both casual conversations and renowned works of literature.

Origins of Oxymoron

The term “oxymoron” has its roots in ancient Greek. It is derived from the Greek words “oxys,” meaning sharp or pointed, and “moros,” meaning foolish or stupid. The combination of these two seemingly contradictory words gives the term its meaning of a figure of speech that combines two contradictory ideas.

The use of oxymora can be traced back to ancient Greek literature, where they were used to create vivid and memorable images. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus, for example, used the phrase “the way up and the way down are one and the same” to express the idea that opposites are interconnected.

The use of oxymora continued throughout the centuries, with examples appearing in the works of Shakespeare, Dickens, and other famous writers. In more recent times, oxymora have become a staple of advertising, with phrases such as “jumbo shrimp” and “deafening silence” used to catch the attention of consumers.

The term “oxymoron” itself was first recorded in Latinized Greek as “oxymōrum” by Maurus Servius Honoratus in the 5th century AD. The word was used to describe the combination of sharp and dull, or foolish and wise, in a single phrase.

Today, the use of oxymora is widespread in literature, advertising, and everyday speech. While some may see them as a contradiction in terms, others see them as a way to express complex ideas in a simple and memorable way.

Oxymoron in Literature

Oxymoron is a literary device that has been used by many famous writers throughout history, including Shakespeare, Tennyson, Alexander Pope , Lord Byron, and Oscar Wilde. It is a figure of speech that combines two contradictory terms or ideas, often resulting in a striking or humorous effect.

In Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet,” Juliet uses an oxymoron when she says, “Parting is such sweet sorrow.” The combination of “sweet” and “sorrow” creates a bittersweet feeling that perfectly captures the emotions of the characters in the scene.

Tennyson’s poem “Lancelot and Elaine” also contains an example of oxymoron when the narrator describes the “cold fire” of Lancelot’s love for Elaine. The contradictory terms “cold” and “fire” convey the conflicting emotions that Lancelot feels towards Elaine.

Alexander Pope, a famous poet of the 18th century, used oxymorons frequently in his work. In his poem “An Essay on Criticism,” he writes, “Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.” The combination of “fools” and “angels” emphasizes the contrast between the two and highlights the foolishness of those who act without thinking.

Lord Byron, another prominent poet of the Romantic era, also used oxymoron in his work. In his poem “Darkness,” he writes, “The bright sun was extinguish’d, and the stars / Did wander darkling in the eternal space.” The combination of “bright” and “extinguished” emphasizes the sudden and complete darkness that has enveloped the world.

Oscar Wilde, a famous playwright and novelist of the late 19th century, also used oxymoron in his work. In his play “The Importance of Being Earnest,” the character Algernon says, “The truth is rarely pure and never simple.” The combination of “pure” and “simple” emphasizes the complexity of the truth and the difficulty of discerning it.

In literature, oxymoron is used to create a striking effect, convey complex emotions, and add depth to characters and themes. It is a powerful tool that has been used by many writers throughout history to enhance their work and captivate their readers.

Common Oxymorons

Oxymorons are a popular literary device that combines two contradicting words to create a unique phrase. These phrases are often used to add humor or emphasize a point, and they can be found in literature, pop culture, and everyday speech. Here are some of the most common oxymorons:

• Sweet sorrow : This oxymoron was popularized by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and refers to the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye to someone you love.
• Cruel kindness : This phrase is used to describe an action that is meant to be kind but ends up causing harm.
• Jumbo shrimp : This oxymoron is a classic example of contradictory words used to create a phrase that is both humorous and memorable.
• Business ethics : This phrase refers to the moral principles that guide business practices. The use of the word “ethics” in conjunction with “business” creates an oxymoron because many people view business as inherently unethical.
• Deafening silence : This phrase describes a situation where there is complete silence, but the silence is so loud that it feels overwhelming.
• Alone together : This phrase describes a situation where people are physically together but emotionally distant.
• Original copy : This oxymoron is used to describe something that is both unique and a duplicate.
• Same difference : This phrase is used to describe two things that are essentially the same but have minor differences.
• Civil war : This oxymoron is used to describe a war that is fought between two factions of the same country.
• Heavy lightness : This phrase is used to describe a feeling of weightlessness or lightness that is accompanied by a sense of gravity or seriousness.
• Serious vanity : This oxymoron is used to describe a person who takes themselves very seriously but is also vain and concerned with their appearance.
• Misshapen chaos : This phrase is used to describe a situation that is chaotic and disorganized but still has some underlying structure or order.
• Well-seeming forms : This oxymoron is used to describe something that appears to be good or desirable but is actually harmful or dangerous.
• Feather of lead : This phrase is used to describe a feeling of heaviness or burden that is accompanied by a sense of lightness or weightlessness.
• Bright smoke : This oxymoron is used to describe something that appears to be bright or colorful but is actually insubstantial or lacking substance.
• Cold fire : This phrase is used to describe something that appears to be hot or passionate but is actually cold or unfeeling.
• Sick health : This oxymoron is used to describe a situation where a person appears to be healthy but is actually sick or unhealthy.
• Still-waking sleep : This phrase is used to describe a state of being where a person is both asleep and awake at the same time.

Oxymorons are a powerful literary device that can add humor, depth, and complexity to any piece of writing. By combining two contradicting words, writers can create phrases that are memorable, thought-provoking, and impactful.

Oxymoron in Language and Grammar

Oxymorons are figures of speech that combine two contradictory terms or ideas, often for comical or ironic effect. They are commonly used in literature, but also have a place in language and grammar.

In writing, oxymorons can be used to create a sense of tension or contradiction. For example, the phrase “proud humility” combines two seemingly opposite adjectives to create a paradoxical statement. This can be a powerful tool for writers looking to convey complex or layered meanings.

In grammar, oxymorons can be used to describe antonym pairs, which are words that have opposite meanings. For example, the words “hot” and “cold” are antonyms, as are “light” and “dark.” When used together, these words can create an oxymoron, such as “icy hot” or “bright darkness.”

Oxymorons can also be used to describe tautologies, which are statements that are true by definition. For example, the phrase “free gift” is a tautology, since a gift is already something that is given without charge. When used in this way, oxymorons can be a useful tool for clarifying language and avoiding ambiguity.

According to Cambridge Dictionary editors, oxymorons can be used for punning, which is a form of wordplay that involves using multiple meanings of a word or phrase. For example, the phrase “jumbo shrimp” is an oxymoron that plays on the multiple meanings of the word “shrimp,” which can refer both to a small sea creature and a person who is weak or insignificant.

Overall, oxymorons are a versatile tool for writers and speakers looking to create complex, layered meanings in language and grammar. By combining incongruous terms, oxymorons can create a sense of tension, irony, and humor that can be used to great effect in a variety of contexts.

Oxymoron in Context

An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines two contradictory words or phrases to create a new meaning. It may seem illogical at first, but in context, it can reveal a deeper or hidden truth. Here are some examples of oxymorons in different contexts:

Love is often associated with positive emotions, but it can also be painful and complex. The following oxymorons capture the paradoxical nature of love:

• Bittersweet love
• Sweet agony
• Beautiful chaos

Life is full of contradictions, and oxymorons can help express this complexity:

• Living dead
• Jumbo shrimp

Oxymorons can also be used to describe economic and social inequality:

• Homeless shelter
• Poverty line

Oxymorons can also be used to describe grammatical concepts, such as plural forms:

• Singular plural
• Irregular regulars
• Controlled chaos

Oxymorons can also be used to describe colors and visual art:

• Colorless color
• Beautifully ugly

The meaning of an oxymoron is often dependent on the context in which it is used:

• Open secret
• Virtual reality

Finally, oxymorons can be used to describe the complexities of death and mortality:

• Final draft
• Sweet sorrow

Overall, oxymorons can be a powerful tool for expressing complex ideas and emotions. By combining contradictory words and phrases, they can reveal deeper truths and paradoxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the definition of an oxymoron?

An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory words or phrases to create a new meaning. It is a literary device that is used to add depth and complexity to a piece of writing. Oxymorons often seem illogical or contradictory at first glance, but in context, they can make sense.

Can you provide some examples of oxymorons?

Some examples of oxymorons include “jumbo shrimp,” “sweet sorrow,” “living dead,” “open secret,” and “pretty ugly.” These phrases combine words with opposite meanings to create a new meaning.

How are oxymorons used in literature?

Oxymorons are often used in literature to create a sense of tension or to add depth to a character or a situation. They can also be used to create irony or to highlight a theme. For example, Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” contains the oxymoron “loving hate,” which highlights the conflicting emotions that the characters feel.

What is the purpose of using oxymorons?

The purpose of using oxymorons is to create a new meaning that is greater than the sum of its parts. They can add depth and complexity to a piece of writing and create a sense of tension or irony. Oxymorons can also be used to highlight a theme or to add humor to a situation.

What are some common misconceptions about oxymorons?

One common misconception about oxymorons is that they are always humorous or illogical. While some oxymorons are used for comedic effect, others are used to create tension or to add depth to a situation. Another misconception is that oxymorons are always two words, but they can also be longer phrases.

How can oxymorons be used for comedic effect?

Oxymorons can be used for comedic effect by combining words with opposite meanings to create a humorous image or situation. For example, the phrase “jumbo shrimp” creates a humorous image of a large shrimp. They can also be used to create puns or wordplay, which can be entertaining for the reader or listener.

Related Posts:

Oxymoron — Definition and Examples

What is an oxymoron?

An oxymoron is a figure of speech created by combining two contradictory terms to present logically accurate ideas, such as "larger half". Oxymorons typically serve to emphasize conflict or contradictions, create humor or satire, and accentuate characteristics.

Emphasize Conflict/Contradiction: Writers make use of oxymorons as a rhetorical device to present conflicting ideas and add dramatic effect. They demonstrate the friction that exists between two opposite words.

"Fiend angelic": In Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, Juliet uses several oxymorons, including "fiend angelic," after hearing that Romeo has killed her cousin, Tybalt. The oxymorons highlight Juliet's conflicting thoughts regarding Romeo; she loves him yet finds him wicked due to his murderous actions.

Humor/Satire: When writers use oxymorons sarcastically, they create rhetorical oxymorons. Ultimately, these word combinations have a humorous effect. Typically, the literal meanings of the words in a rhetorical oxymoron are not contradictory; instead, they contrast figuratively.

Good morning: "Morning" often carries a negative connotation since not everyone feels refreshed and full of energy upon waking up. Therefore, combining the negative connotation of the word "morning" with "good" makes the phrase oxymoronic.

Airline food: People typically criticize the meals provided by airlines for not being of the highest quality. Presenting the phrase "airline food" as an oxymoron suggests the meal provided on a plane is the opposite of food.

Accentuate Characteristics: When juxtaposing two contradictory words, the characteristics of the words intensify.

Bittersweet: Using an oxymoron like bittersweet, instead of synonymous words such as sentimental or sorrowful, intensifies the emotion. Combining both bitter and sweet is a description that carries positive and negative characteristics.

The English word oxymoron comes from the Greek words “oxy,” meaning sharp or keen, and “moros,” meaning foolish.

Oxymoron examples

The following list contains well-known examples of oxymorons:

alone together

clearly misunderstood

deafening silence

found missing

freezer burn

genuine imitation

intense apathy

jumbo shrimp

larger half

original copy

random order

small crowd

unbiased opinion

virtual reality

Oxymoron in literature

The following literary works contain examples of oxymorons:

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare:

Feather of lead, bright smoke , cold fire , sick health , / Still- waking sleep , that is not what it is! / This love feel I, that feel no love in this.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte:

And now it is deluged with a nectarous flood--the young germs swamped-- delicious poison cankering them.

The Call of the Wild by Jack London:

With the aurora borealis flaming coldly overhead, or the stars leaping in the frost dance, and the land numb and frozen under its pall of snow, this song of the huskies might have been the defiance of life…

Oxymoron in poetry

Poets tend to use oxymorons more than novelists, as the device allows poets to use fewer words to say more, as is evidenced in the following examples:

"Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night" by Dylan Thomas:

...who see with blinding sight / And you, my father, there on the sad height / Curse, bless , me now...

"A Prayer for my Daughter" by William Butler Yeats:

Imagining in excited reverie / That the future years had come, / Dancing to a frenzied drum, / Out of the murderous innocence of the sea.

Paradise Lost by John Milton:

No light, but rather darkness visible / Served only to discover sights of woe, / Regions of sorrow, doleful shades, where peace / And rest can never dwell, hope never comes.

Figure of Speech

Figure of Speech Definition

What is a figure of speech? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

A figure of speech is a literary device in which language is used in an unusual—or "figured"—way in order to produce a stylistic effect. Figures of speech can be broken into two main groups: figures of speech that play with the ordinary meaning of words (such as metaphor , simile , and hyperbole ), and figures of speech that play with the ordinary arrangement or pattern in which words are written (such as alliteration , ellipsis , and antithesis ).

Some additional key details about figures of speech:

• The ancient Greeks and Romans exhaustively listed, defined, and categorized figures of speech in order to better understand how to effectively use language. The names of most figures of speech derive from the original Greek or Latin.
• Figures of speech that play with the literal meaning of words are called tropes , while figures of speech that play with the order or pattern of words are called schemes .
• Figures of speech can take many forms. A figure of speech can involve a single word, a phrase, an omission of a word or phrase, a repetition of words or sounds, or specific sentence structures.

Figure of Speech Pronunciation

Here's how to pronounce figure of speech: fig -yer of speech

Figures of Speech vs. Figurative Language

There's a lot of confusion about the difference between the terms "figures of speech" and " figurative language ." Most of the confusion stems from the fact that different people often use "figurative language" to mean slightly different things. The two most common (and most acceptable) definitions of figurative language are:

• Figurative language refers to any language that contains figures of speech. According to this definition, figurative language and figures of speech are not quite the same thing, but it's pretty darn close. The only difference is that figures of speech refer to each specific type of a figure of speech, while figurative language refers more generally to any language that contains any kind of figures of speech.
• Figurative language refers to words or expressions that have non-literal meanings : This definition associates figurative language only with the category of figures of speech called tropes (which are figures of speech that play with the literal meaning of words). So according to this definition, figurative language would be any language that contains tropes, but not language that contains the figures of speech called schemes.

You might encounter people using figurative speech to mean either of the above, and it's not really possible to say which is correct. But if you know about these two different ways of relating figurative language and figures of speech, you'll be in pretty good shape.

Figures of Speech, Tropes, and Schemes

The oldest and still most common way to organize figures of speech is to split them into two main groups: tropes and schemes.

• Tropes are figures of speech that involve a deviation from the expected and literal meaning of words.
• Schemes are figures of speech that involve a deviation from the typical mechanics of a sentence, such as the order, pattern, or arrangement of words.

The scheme/trope classification system is by no means the only way to organize figures of speech (if you're interested, you can find all sorts of different categorization methods for figures of speech here ). But it is the most common method, and is both simple and structured enough to help you understand figures of speech.

Generally, a trope uses comparison, association, or wordplay to play with the literal meaning of words or to layer another meaning on top of a word's literal meaning. Some of the most commonly used tropes are explained briefly below, though you can get even more detail on each from its specific LitCharts entry.

• Metaphor : A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unrelated things by stating that one thing is another thing, even though this isn't literally true. For example, if someone says "it's raining cats and dogs," this obviously doesn't literally mean what it says—it's a metaphor that makes a comparison between the weight of "cats and dogs" and heavy rain. Metaphors are tropes because their effect relies not on the mechanics of the sentence, but rather on the association created by the use of the phrase "cats and dogs" in a non-literal manner.
• Simile : A simile, like a metaphor, makes a comparison between two unrelated things. However, instead of stating that one thing is another thing (as in metaphor), a simile states that one thing is like another thing. To stick with cats and dogs, an example of a simile would be to say "they fought like cats and dogs."
• Oxymoron : An oxymoron pairs contradictory words in order to express new or complex meanings. In the phrase "parting is such sweet sorrow" from Romeo and Juliet , "sweet sorrow" is an oxymoron that captures the complex and simultaneous feelings of pain and pleasure associated with passionate love. Oxymorons are tropes because their effect comes from a combination of the two words that goes beyond the literal meanings of those words.
• Hyperbole : A hyperbole is an intentional exaggeration of the truth, used to emphasize the importance of something or to create a comic effect. An example of a hyperbole is to say that a backpack "weighs a ton." No backpack literally weighs a ton, but to say "my backpack weighs ten pounds" doesn't effectively communicate how burdensome a heavy backpack feels. Once again, this is a trope because its effect comes from understanding that the words mean something different from what they literally say.

Other Common Tropes

• Antanaclasis
• Onomatopoeia
• Personification
• Periphrasis
• Rhetorical Question

Schemes are mechanical—they're figures of speech that tinker with words, sounds, and structures (as opposed to meanings) in order to achieve an effect. Schemes can themselves be broken down in helpful ways that define the sort of tinkering they employ.

• Repetition: Repeating words, phrases, or even sounds in a particular way.
• Omission: Leaving out certain words or punctuation that would normally be expected.
• Changes of word order: Shifting around words or phrases in atypical ways.
• Balance: Creating sentences or phrases with equal parts, often through the use of identical grammatical structures.

Some of the most commonly used schemes are explained briefly below, though you can get even more detail on each from its specific LitCharts entry.

• Alliteration : In alliteration, the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “b” sound in: “ B ob b rought the b ox of b ricks to the b asement.” Alliteration uses repetition to create a musical effect that helps phrases to stand out from the language around them.
• Assonance : A scheme in which vowel sounds repeat in nearby words, such as the "ee" sound in the proverb: "the squ ea ky wh ee l gets the gr ea se." Like alliteration, assonance uses repeated sounds to create a musical effect in which words echo one another—it's a scheme because this effect is achieved through repetition of words with certain sounds, not by playing with the meaning of words.
• Ellipsis : The deliberate omission of one or more words from a sentence because their meaning is already implied. In the example, "Should I call you, or you me?" the second clause uses ellipsis. While its implication is "or should you call me," the context of the sentence allows for the omission of "should" and "call." Ellipsis is a scheme because it involves an uncommon usage of language.
• Parallelism : The repetition of sentence structure for emphasis and balance. This can occur in a single sentence, such as "a penny saved is a penny earned," and it can also occur over the course of a speech, poem, or other text. Parallelism is a scheme because it creates emphasis through the mechanics of sentence structure, rather than by playing with the actual meanings of words.

Other Common Schemes

• Anadiplosis
• Antimetabole
• Brachylogia
• Epanalepsis
• Parenthesis
• Polysyndeton

Figure of Speech Examples

Figures of speech can make language more inventive, more beautiful, more rhythmic, more memorable, and more meaningful. It shouldn't be a surprise, then, that figures of speech are plentiful in all sorts of written language. The examples below show a variety of different types of figures of speech. You can see many more examples of each type at their own specific LitChart entries.

Figures of Speech Examples in Literature

Literature is riddled with figures of speech because figures of speech make language colorful and complex.

Metaphor in Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca

On and on, now east now west, wound the poor thread that once had been our drive. Sometimes I thought it lost, but it appeared again, beneath a fallen tree perhaps, or struggling on the other side of a muddied ditch created by the winter rains.

In this quote from Rebecca , Daphne du Maurier refers to a washed-out road as "the poor thread." This is a metaphor —and a trope—because the writer indirectly compares the thread to the road and expects that readers will understand that "thread" is not used literally.

Parallelism in Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way.

In the famous opening line of A Tale of Two Cities , Dickens uses parallelism —a scheme in which parts of a sentence repeat—in order to emphasize the contradictions of the time in which the book is set. Dickens has manipulated his sentence structure so that the parallel clauses emphasize the oppositional nature of his words ("it was the best of times, it was the worst of times"). The figure of speech doesn't play with the meaning of words, it emphasizes them through structure and repetition, which is why it is a scheme.

Alliteration in Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Birthmark"

In this manner, s electing it as the s ymbol of his wife's liability to s in, s orrow, d ecay, and d eath, Aylmer's s ombre imagination was not long in rendering the birthmark a frightful object, causing him more trouble and horror than ever Georgiana's beauty, whether of s oul or s ense, had given him delight.

This passage from " The Birthmark " uses alliteration to tie together all of the things that Georgiana's birthmark is supposed to symbolize. By using words that alliterate—"sin and sorrow" and "decay and death," for example—Hawthorne is making the reader feel that these ideas are connected, rather than simply stating that they are connected. Alliteration is a figure of speech—a scheme—because it uses the mechanics of language to emphasize meaning.

Verbal Irony in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar

For Brutus is an honorable man; So are they all, all honorable men,

This quote from Julius Caesar comes from Marc Antony's speech at Caesar's funeral. Antony needs to hold Brutus and his conspirators accountable for Caesar's death without contradicting the crowd's positive impression of Brutus, so Antony uses verbal irony to simultaneously please and trouble the crowd. On the surface, Antony says what the audience wants to hear (that Brutus is honorable), but it becomes clear over the course of his speech that he means the opposite of what he says (and over time he convinces the audience to believe this opposite meaning as well). This is a figure of speech (a trope) because it's based on a play on the meaning of Antony's words.

Figures of Speech Examples in Music

Figures of speech are also common in music. Schemes fit naturally with songs because both schemes and songs manipulate sound and rhythm to enhance the meanings of words. Music also uses many tropes, because using words that have meanings beyond their literal ones makes language more interesting, and it allows songwriters to create music that uses just a few words to imply a complex meaning.

Assonance and Metaphor in Rihanna's "Diamonds"

So sh ine br igh t ton igh t, you and I We're beautiful l i ke d i amonds in the sk y Eye to eye , so al i ve We're beautiful l i ke d i amonds in the sk y

Rihanna uses assonance when she repeats the " eye " sound throughout the chorus of "Diamonds." This make the words echo one another, which emphasizes the similarity between the singer, the person she's talking about, and the "diamonds in the sky" to which she's comparing them both. Assonance is a scheme because it's using the sound of words—not their meaning—to draw a parallel between different things.

Rihanna also uses the phrase "Diamonds in the sky" as a metaphor for stars. This is a trope—a phrase that means something other than what it literally says—as Rihanna obviously doesn't think that there are actually diamonds in the sky. This verse is a good example of how figures of speech can often work together and overlap. In this case, the metaphor that allows her to use "diamonds" instead of "stars" also fits into her use of assonance (because "stars" lacks the "eye" sound).

Personification in Green Day's "Good Riddance"

Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go

While the first line of this song uses "a fork stuck in the road" as a metaphor for a choice, the more arresting figure of speech at work here is the personification of time in the second line. By giving "time" human characteristics—the ability to grab a person and tell them where to go—Green Day is helping listeners to make sense of the power that time has over people. This is a trope because the line doesn't mean what it literally says; instead, it's asking listeners to make a comparison between the characteristics of time and the characteristics of a person.

Anastrophe in Public Enemy's "Fight the Power"

Straight up racist that sucker was Simple and plain

In the line "Straight up racist that sucker was," Public Enemy uses anastrophe (which is the inversion of typical word order) to preserve the rhythm of the verse. Instead of saying "That sucker was straight up racist," Public Enemy chooses an odd phrasing that has one stressed syllable followed by two unstressed syllables— " ra cist that su cker was/ Sim ple and plain ." This way, the beat falls more regularly across those two lines, which allows the rapper to make his point (that Elvis was racist) without the flow sounding awkward. Since anastrophe manipulates the order of words in order to achieve a rhythmic effect, it's a scheme.

Why Do Writers Use Figures of Speech?

Figures of speech is a category that encompasses a broad variety of literary terms, so it's difficult to give one answer to this question. Writers use different figures of speech to achieve different effects.

Schemes (figures of speech that manipulate sound, syntax, and word order) can make language more beautiful, persuasive, or memorable. Writers can use schemes to draw attention to an important passage, to create a sound that mirrors (or contrasts with) the meaning of words, or to give language a rhythm that draws the reader in. As schemes tend to work through sound and rhythm, they generally produce a visceral effect, or an effect felt in the body—broadly speaking, schemes are more sensory than intellectual.

In contrast, writers use tropes to grab the reader intellectually by adding complexity or ambiguity to an otherwise simple word or phrase. Tropes can ask the reader to make a comparison between two unlike things, they can impose human qualities on nonhumans, and they can mean the opposite of what they say. Tropes engage the intellect because the reader has to be alert to the fact that tropes do not use language at face value—a trope never means what it literally says.

All figures of speech help a writer to communicate ideas that are difficult to say in words or that are more effectively communicated non-verbally. This could be by repeating harsh consonants to create a scary atmosphere, or by using a metaphor to impose the qualities of something concrete (say, a rose) onto something more difficult to define (say, love). In general, figures of speech attempt to bring out a reader's emotion and to capture their attention by making language more colorful, surprising, and complex.

Other Helpful Figure of Speech Resources

• Silva Rhetoricae on Figures of Speech : An excellent reference from BYU that explains the various ways that figures of speech have been categorized over history, including into schemes and tropes.
• Silva Rhetoricae on schemes and tropes :
• The Oxford Reference Page for Figure of Speech : A helpful definition of figures of speech in the context of the ancient study of rhetoric (did you know that the Roman rhetorician Quintillian defined "figure of speech" in 95 AD?)
• What Are Tropes in Language? Skip to the "Distinction Between Figures and Tropes" section and read to the end—full of informative and thought-provoking discussion about tropes.
• A YouTube video about tropes and schemes with pop culture examples.

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Oxymoron Figure of Speech

Oxymorons aren’t just a quirk of the English language; they’re a powerful figure of speech that can make your writing more compelling. These unique phrases bring together conflicting ideas in a way that adds depth and intrigue to your prose. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a newbie, understanding how to use oxymorons can make your text pop. For a more detailed understanding, you can explore these oxymoron examples from various sources.

What is an Oxymoron Figure of Speech? – Definition

An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines two seemingly contradictory or opposite words or ideas to create a new, often complex meaning. For example, phrases like “jumbo shrimp” or “deafening silence” are classic oxymorons that invite readers to explore the tension between the conflicting concepts. If you’re interested in how oxymorons are used in literature, you can check out this article on oxymorons in literature .

What is the best Example of an Oxymoron Figure of Speech?

One of the most iconic examples of an oxymoron in literature is “O brawling love! O loving hate!” from Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” This line perfectly encapsulates the conflicting emotions of love and hate, creating a complex emotional landscape that resonates with readers even today. For those who enjoy poetry, you might find oxymorons in poetry equally fascinating.

100 Oxymoron Figure of Speech Examples

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• Deafening Silence – William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”
• Living Dead – George A. Romero’s “Night of the Living Dead”
• Original Copy – Common parlance
• Act Naturally – Oxymoron in common speech
• Passive Aggressive – Psychological terminology
• Alone Together – Title of a book by Sherry Turkle
• Seriously Funny – Stand-up comedy jargon
• Small Crowd – Reported by news outlets
• Virtual Reality – Tech industry term
• Same Difference – Colloquial expression
• Old News – Common phrase in journalism
• Random Order – Mathematical term
• Found Missing – Police reports
• Awfully Good – Popular critique term
• Minor Crisis – News headline
• Growing Smaller – Economic terminology
• Clearly Confused – Educational language
• Exact Estimate – Construction jargon
• Freezer Burn – Culinary term
• True Myth – C.S. Lewis writings
• Only Choice – Philosophical discussion
• Open Secret – Political term
• Rolling Stop – Traffic terminology
• Paid Volunteer – Nonprofit sector
• Jumbo Shrimp – Culinary arts
• Liquid Gas – Scientific term
• Constant Change – Business jargon
• Passive Resistance – Social activism
• Plastic Glasses – Eyewear industry
• Bittersweet Symphony – Song by The Verve
• Controlled Chaos – Military term
• Definite Maybe – Everyday conversation
• Civil War – Historical events
• Crash Landing – Aviation term
• Actively Waiting – Customer service jargon
• Terribly Pleased – British colloquialism
• Negative Growth – Economic reports
• Tragic Comedy – Shakespearean plays
• Detailed Summary – Academic papers
• Lesser Evil – Political debates
• Cautiously Optimistic – Media interviews
• Painfully Beautiful – Art critique
• Virtual Community – Online platforms
• Harmless Lie – Moral dilemmas
• Random Pattern – Design term
• Unbiased Opinion – Journalism ethics
• Seriously Joking – Social interaction
• Quiet Riot – Band name
• Passive Income – Financial planning
• Old Boys – Elite social clubs
• Ill Health – Medical reports
• Awfully Pretty – Fashion industry
• Walk-on star – Theater term
• Definite Possibility – Scientific jargon
• Pretty Ugly – Pop culture phrase
• Known Secret – Espionage term
• Passive Leadership – Management studies
• Silent Scream – Horror genre
• Advanced Basics – Educational curriculum
• Fuzzy Logic – Computer science
• Larger Half – Common expression
• Holy War – Religious text
• Restless Sleep – Sleep studies
• Same Opposite – Philosophical discourse
• Living Fossil – Paleontological term
• Recorded Live – Entertainment industry
• Student Teacher – Educational field
• Brief Speech – Public speaking
• Genuine Fake – Art forgery
• Constant Variable – Mathematical terminology
• Passive-aggressive – Psychological studies
• Minor Miracle – Religious discourse
• Friendly Fire – Military terminology
• Growing Smaller – Environmental context
• Organized Mess – Personal description
• Original Spin – Political jargon
• Partially Complete – Project status
• Soft Rock – Music genre
• Liquid Solid – Physics term
• Rising Fall – Market trends
• Accurate Rumors – Gossip circles
• Seriously Silly – Children’s books
• Tight Slacks – Fashion paradox
• Controlled Freedom – Political studies
• Qualified Success – Career lingo
• Working Vacation – Corporate culture
• Virtual Friend – Social media term
• Light Darkness – Religious texts
• Fresh Rotten – Food quality
• Painful Pleasure – Emotional complexity
• Quiet Noise – Sound studies
• Sad Smile – Emotional state
• Dry Humor – Comedy style
• Active Retirement – Lifestyle choice
• Complex Simplicity – Artistic expression
• Planned Spontaneity – Social dynamics
• Thoughtless Consideration – Moral dilemma
• Brave Coward – Character analysis
• Blind Sight – Metaphysical discourse
• Near Miss – Aviation reports

Parody Oxymoron Figure of Speech Examples

Dive into the amusing world of parodies where oxymorons play a pivotal role in heightening humor and satire. These contradictory yet compelling phrases are key to crafting parodies that are not only entertaining but also intellectually stimulating.

• Act Naturally – Source: Comedy Skits
• Seriously Joking – Source: Satirical Articles
• Awfully Good – Source: Parody Songs
• Same Difference – Source: Comedy Shows
• Virtual Reality – Source: Tech Parodies
• Organized Chaos – Source: Political Parodies
• Passive-Aggressive – Source: Social Commentary Memes
• Original Copy – Source: Artistic Parodies
• Small Crowd – Source: Theater Performances
• Known Secret – Source: Spy Parodies

Oxymoron Figure of Speech Examples for Class 10

Incorporate oxymorons into your class 10 syllabus to make learning more engaging and multi-dimensional. These phrases help students develop analytical skills while appreciating the complexities of language.

• Deafening Silence – Source: Literature Textbook
• Open Secret – Source: Social Studies
• Passive Resistance – Source: History Book
• Tragic Comedy – Source: Drama Class
• Liquid Gas – Source: Science Textbook
• Bittersweet – Source: Poetry Assignment
• Freezer Burn – Source: Home Economics
• Civil War – Source: History Lessons
• Controlled Chaos – Source: Philosophy Discussions
• Living Dead – Source: English Literature

Oxymorons in Various Contexts

Oxymorons captivate us by marrying contradictory terms into one fascinating expression. This figure of speech is a staple in both literature and everyday language, offering intriguing complexity within simple phrases. Recognizing and understanding oxymorons can enrich your reading experience and elevate your own writing. For a lighter take on the subject, you might enjoy these funny oxymorons .

What Do Oxymorons Represent?

Oxymorons are not mere quirks of language; they are a robust literary tool that embodies paradox and complexity. When two contradictory words are placed together, an oxymoron often captures a more profound truth or complexity that either word couldn’t achieve independently. They are particularly useful in exploring dichotomies, highlighting contradictions, or adding a layer of depth to your thoughts and expressions.

For instance, in the term “deafening silence,” the oxymoron is used to express a silence so intense that it feels almost loud or overwhelming. This helps in capturing the essence of a situation that is too complex to describe with a single word or phrase. So, oxymorons serve as compact vessels that contain within them multifaceted ideas, making them ideal for both literary and everyday usage.

Oxymorons are not mere quirks of language; they are a robust literary tool that embodies paradox and complexity. When two contradictory words are placed together, an oxymoron often captures a more profound truth or complexity that either word couldn’t achieve independently. They are particularly useful in exploring dichotomies, highlighting contradictions, or adding a layer of depth to your thoughts and expressions. If you’re interested in the emotional depth that oxymorons can offer, you might want to read about emotional oxymorons .

What is an Oxymoron Figure of Speech for Kids?

An oxymoron for kids is essentially a simplified version of the complex figure of speech we commonly encounter. Teaching oxymorons to kids can be both educational and entertaining, helping them appreciate the richness and complexity of language at an early age. For more on this, you can visit oxymorons for kids .

Let’s take the example of “bittersweet.” At first glance, “bitter” and “sweet” seem like complete opposites. But when you taste dark chocolate, you realize it’s both! Here, the oxymoron serves as a wonderful introduction to the complexities of flavors, emotions, and situations kids might face. Hence, introducing oxymorons at a young age can serve as a building block for critical thinking, language development, and even emotional intelligence.

In summary, oxymorons for kids aren’t just child’s play; they’re a gateway to a more nuanced understanding of language and life itself.

How do you write an Oxymoron Figure of Speech? – Step by Step Guide

Oxymorons can add depth and nuance to your writing or speech, but how do you craft the perfect oxymoron? Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to help you master this intriguing figure of speech. If you’re looking for a more comical approach, you might find these comical oxymorons interesting.

Step 1: Identify the Context

Before you start, understand the context in which you intend to use the oxymoron. Knowing the theme, subject, or tone can guide you towards choosing a fitting oxymoron.

Step 2: Brainstorm Opposing Concepts

List down words or phrases that are inherently contradictory but could make sense when put together. For instance, “deafening” and “silence” are opposing ideas, but they work in unison to describe an overpowering quietness.

Step 3: Test the Pairing

Before finalizing, see if the words you’ve chosen truly create an impactful oxymoron. The terms should bring a new layer of meaning when combined.

Step 4: Use it in a Sentence

An oxymoron is most effective when it fits naturally into a sentence or phrase. Test out your oxymoron in a full sentence to check if it enhances your point.

Step 5: Review and Revise

Read the sentence out loud or get a second opinion. Make any necessary revisions to ensure the oxymoron adds value to your communication.

Tips for Using Oxymoron Figure of Speech

While oxymorons can be engaging, using them too frequently can lessen their impact. An oxymoron should be pertinent to the subject you are discussing. A misplaced oxymoron can confuse the reader or listener. For more everyday examples, you can check out everyday oxymorons .

Tip 1: Don’t Overdo It

While oxymorons can be engaging, using them too frequently can lessen their impact.

Tip 2: Keep it Relevant

An oxymoron should be pertinent to the subject you are discussing. A misplaced oxymoron can confuse the reader or listener.

Tip 3: Aim for Subtlety

Sometimes the most effective oxymorons are those that aren’t immediately obvious but require a second thought to fully grasp their complexity.

Tip 4: Use in Titles or Headings

Oxymorons catch attention and provoke thought, making them excellent for titles, headings, or slogans.

Tip 5: Experiment with Variations

Don’t hesitate to modify or coin new oxymorons that suit your purpose. Innovation can make your writing truly stand out.

By incorporating these tips and following the step-by-step guide, you can proficiently utilize oxymorons to enrich your writing or speech, adding layers of meaning and drawing your audience into a deeper engagement with your work.

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Figures of speech – Definition and Examples of Oxymoron

Figures of speech – oxymoron, what is oxymoron.

An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines incongruous or contradictory terms. The plural is oxymorons or oxymora .

An oximoron can be made of an adjective and a noun:

• Deafening silence
• Living dead
• Open secret
• Virtual reality

Oximorons can also be a combination of a noun and a verb.

• The silence whistles

More figures of speech

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100 Awfully Good Examples of Oxymorons

ThoughtCo. 

• An Introduction to Punctuation
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

An oxymoron is a figure of speech , usually one or two words, in which seemingly contradictory terms appear side by side. This contradiction is also known as a  paradox . Writers and poets have used it for centuries as a literary device to describe life's inherent conflicts and incongruities. In speech, oxymorons can lend a sense of humor, irony, or sarcasm .

Using Oxymorons

The word "oxymoron" is itself oxymoronic, which is to say contradictory. The word is derived from two ancient Greek words: oxys , which means "sharp," and moronos , which means "dull" or "stupid." Take this sentence, for example:

"This was a minor crisis and the only choice was to drop the product line," (Todd 2007).

There are two oxymorons in this sentence: "minor crisis" and "only choice." If you're learning English as a second language, you might be confused by these figures of speech. Read literally, they contradict themselves. A crisis is defined as a time of serious difficulty or importance. By that measure, no crisis is unimportant or minor. Similarly, "choice" implies more than one option, which is contradicted by "only," which implies the opposite.

But once you become fluent in English , it's easy to recognize such oxymorons for the figures of speech that they are. As the example's author, Richard Watson Todd, said, "The true beauty of oxymorons is that, unless we sit back and really think, we happily accept them as normal English."

Oxymorons have been used since the days of the ancient Greek poets. William Shakespeare was known to sprinkle them throughout his plays, poems, and sonnets. In Romeo and Juliet, Act 1, Scene 1, we have a full 13 of them!

O brawling love! O loving hate! O anything of nothing first create! O heavy lightness, serious vanity! Misshapen chaos of well-seeming forms! Feather of lead, bright smoke, cold fire, sick health! Still-waking sleep, that is not what it is! This love feel I, that feel no love in this.

Oxymorons also feature in modern comedy and politics. The conservative political writer William Buckley, for instance, became famous for quotes like, "An intelligent liberal is an oxymoron." Likewise, in 1975 comedian George Carlin popularized a few notable ones, including "military intelligence" and "business ethics."

100 Examples of Oxymorons

Like other kinds of figurative language , oxymorons (or oxymora) are often found in literature. As shown by this list of 100 awfully good examples, oxymorons are also part of our everyday speech. You'll find common figures of speech, plus references to works of classic and pop culture.

• absent presence (Sidney 1591)
• alone together
• beggarly riches (Donne 1624)
• bittersweet
• brisk vacancy (Ashbery 1975)
• cheerful pessimist
• clearly misunderstood
• comfortable misery (Koontz 2001)
• conspicuous absence
• cool passion
• crash landing
• cruel kindness
• darkness visible (Milton 1667)
• deafening silence
• deceptively honest
• definite maybe
• deliberate speed
• devout atheist
• eloquent silence
• exact estimate
• extinct life
• falsely true (Tennyson 1862)
• festive tranquility
• found missing
• freezer burn
• friendly takeover
• genuine imitation
• growing smaller
• historical present
• humane slaughter
• idiot savant
• impossible solution
• intense apathy
• joyful sadness
• jumbo shrimp
• larger half
• lascivious grace (Shakespeare 1609)
• lead balloon
• liquid marble (Jonson 1601)
• living dead
• living sacrifices
• loosely sealed
• loud whisper
• loyal opposition
• magic realism
• melancholy merriment (Byron 1819)
• militant pacifist
• minor miracle
• negative growth
• negative income
• one-man band
• only choice
• openly deceptive
• open secret
• original copy
• overbearingly modest
• paper tablecloth
• paper towel
• peaceful conquest
• plastic glasses
• plastic silverware
• poor health
• pretty ugly
• properly ridiculous
• random order
• recorded live
• resident alien
• same difference
• scalding coolness (Hemingway 1940)
• seriously funny
• shrewd dumbness
• silent scream
• small crowd
• "The Sound of Silence" (Simon 1965)
• static flow
• student teacher
• "sweet sorrow" (Shakespeare 1595)
• terribly good
• theoretical experience
• transparent night (Whitman 1865)
• true fiction
• unbiased opinion
• unconscious awareness
• upward fall
• working vacation

On first appearance, oxymorons may seem like the result of a thoughtless writer or speaker—but in fact, they are a wonderfully useful figure of speech that can help add complexity and humor. Which may or may not be an unbiased opinion.

• Ashbery, John. Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror . Viking Press, 1975.
• Byron, Lord. "Don Juan." 1819.
• Donne, John. Devotions upon Emergent Occasions . 1624.
• Hemingway, Ernest. For Whom the Bell Tolls. Charles Scribner's Sons, 1940.
• Jonson, Ben. "Poetaster." 1601.
• Koontz, Dean. One Door Away From Heaven . Bantam Books, 2001.
• Milton, John. Paradise Lost . Samuel Simmons, 1667.
• Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet . 1595.
• Shakespeare, William. "Sonnet 40." 1609.
• Sidney, Philip. Astrophel and Stella . 1591.
• Simon, Paul. "The Sound of Silence." Tom Wilson, 1965.
• Tennyson, Alfred. " Lancelot and Elaine." Idylls of the King . 1862.
• Todd, Richard Watson. Much Ado About English: Up and Down the Bizarre Byways of a Fascinating Language. Nicholas Brealey Publishing, 2007.
• Whitman, Walt. "When Lilacs Last in the Door-yard Bloom’d." Sequel to Drum-Taps . 1865.

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